United States and Japanese trade officials are working on a sub-trade deal involving agriculture and automobiles. South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association President Steve Ollerich sees that as a positive development that could eventually lead to an overall bilateral pact with Japan.

He says because Japan is currently in the Comprehensive Trans Pacific Partnership, U.S. beef is facing a large tariff against competitors which are part of that agreement.

Ollerich says America’s cattle producers could use some good market news and having a deal with Japan would help.

A U.S. agreement with Japan could be finalized in September when President Donald Trump meets with Japan’s Prime Minister.