TOKYO -- Japan and Peru formally agreed Tuesday to start talks for a bilateral free trade agreement, the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry said.
Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso held a telephone conversation with Peruvian President Alan Garcia, confirming the earlier agreement between the two countries, the METI said.
The two countries have yet to determine a specific date for the talks.
Negotiation sources said earlier that Japan is hoping Peru will scrap or sharply reduce its duties on automobiles while Peru wants to expand its access to Japan's farm and fishery markets.
