Japan revises trade deal with ASEAN

Japan has amended its trade deal with countries in Southeast Asia, which is expected to help businesses on both sides, reports NHK World.

The Economic Partnership Agreement liberalises services and investment between Japan and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN.

Foreign Minister Taro Kono signed the revised deal on Wednesday.

Japan's Foreign Ministry says the new reciprocal protocol will further open the fields of finance, education and communications.

Markets that interest Japan include countries such as Myanmar -- which has strict controls on foreign capital. The country is sometimes referred to as the last frontier in Asia.