Japan may ease barriers on California wines.

The California State World Trade Commission said that the Japanese Parliament will consider a proposal to reduce tariffs on imported wines and wine coolers which, if passed, will go into effect April 1. The proposal also calls for eliminating a 50% liquor tax in Japan. In a related development, Taiwan will allow California firms to advertise, promote and sell their wines in 70,000 outlets that previously sold only domestic Taiwan products.