to bring it below 30% as soon as possible; Reuters reporting the vice econ min comments a few moments ago says economy in line with expectations; govt and BOJ ready to respond appropriately to risks; hopes exports will pick up but overseas risks continue to centre on emerging markets; gains in base wages and bonuses to offset sales tax hike impact and support consumption/broader economy ahead; says the gap between US and Japan in trade talks is narrowing, aiming to reach broader TPP agreement early; USDJPY still 101.32 off its 101.25 lows. (full story)