Officials from Japan and the European Union have returned to the negotiating table in Tokyo. They are trying to conclude an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). The sides tried to reach a broad agreement by the end of last year. But they could not narrow their differences over tariffs on farm products and automobiles. The focus of talks this time will be on rules on trade and investment. <br/><br/>EU officials want more local governments in Japan to accept bids from European firms for public works projects. They have also suggested setting up a body for settling disputes between governments and businesses. The sides are to avoid in-depth negotiations on tariffs, given the wide gap that persists. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a summit with top EU leaders last month. He urged that an agreement on the EPA be hammered out at an early date to set an example for the world. <br/><br/>