Obama says Pacific trade deal can be struck 'this year'

Washington

US President Barack Obama on Wednesday expressed optimism that a vast Pacific trade deal can be reached before the end of the year, despite disputes over rules for key sectors.

Discussing a 12-country pact that brings together large and growing economies as diverse as the US, Japan and Vietnam, Mr Obama told business leaders: "I have confidence we can get it done and I believe we can get it done this year."