Japan and the US are trying to break a deadlock in talks over a free trade deal.

Officials met in Tokyo today on the Trans-Pacific Partnership ahead of a visit by U.S. President Barack Obama.

Japan’s TPP minister Akira Amari held talks with U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman after working-level discussions yielded no progress.

Amari said discussions had deepened but there was still distance between the two countries. The talks ran until late Wednesday evening and are expected to conclude Thursday.

Talks are deadlocked over Japan’s stance on tariffs on key farm products such as rice and beef. The likelihood of a breakthrough is unclear.

Prior to the talks, Froman said he believes the two sides can bridge the gap if their discussions are rooted in good will.

Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said the country’s position is rooted in the national interest and there is no set deadline for an agreement.