Japanese broadcaster NHK says the South Korean government is aiming to have the Korea-U.S. free trade agreement put into effect by July of 2011.

NHK quoted South Korean Deputy Minister for Trade Choi Seok-young as saying that Seoul is expecting progress to be made in FTA negotiations with Washington before U.S. President Barack Obama visits South Korea next month.

Choi also said that although uncertainties are lingering, South Korea has the goal of having the trade deal effectuated by July of next year, which is when Seoul’s free trade deal with the European Union goes into effect.

The Japanese broadcaster reported that South Korea has been actively pursuing free trade agreements with foreign countries following the enactment of such pacts with ASEAN and India.

There will be a significant cut in tariffs on autos and home appliances when the South Korea-EU trade deal goes into effect.