WTO deal edges closer as Big Five agree

Geneva: A deal on a trade pact by the full WTO membership edged closer in Geneva yesterday after five key players - the EU, the USA, Australia, India and Japan - ended hours of bargaining.

However, there was still no public indication of a major breakthrough that would enable negotiators to reach outline deals in four key areas - farm and industrial goods, services and a new customs code - before tonight's deadline.

A revised draft proposal on reviving the global trade talks was awaited last night.