Rice Remains Sticking Point as Japan, US Seek to Implement Deal

The news article discusses the ongoing negotiations between Japan and the United States regarding the implementation of their July trade deal. The primary sticking point remains the issue of rice, as both countries are struggling to reconcile their different perspectives on this matter. The article highlights that while the majority of the trade deal has yet to be implemented, the rice issue continues to pose a challenge. The two nations are working to find a mutually acceptable solution, as they aim to fully operationalize the agreement they reached earlier this year. The article suggests that the disagreement over rice represents a broader challenge in aligning the various aspects of the trade deal, which covers a range of economic and commercial interests. As the negotiations progress, both Japan and the US are seeking to find a way forward that satisfies their respective concerns and allows for the successful implementation of the broader trade agreement.