Trade officials from Japan, China and South Korea have discussed what should be done before the 3 countries sign a free trade agreement.

The officials held a seminar in China's Shandong Province on Tuesday.

Chinese Deputy International Trade Representative Yu Jianhua said the 3 nations account for more than 20 percent of global gross domestic product.

Yu also said if they form a free trade zone, the living standards of their citizens will further improve.

A South Korean representative said the prospective 3-party agreement should contribute to promoting investment. The official called for transparent rules to protect investors.

A Japanese official said each country needs to create an environment that will make it easier for foreign firms to do business.

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This news was published on June 18, 2013.

Source: http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20130619_01.html