Japan PM says TPP deal means big benefits for Asia-Pacific

"It is a major outcome not just for Japan but also for the future of the Asia-Pacific," Abe told reporters shortly after the deal was clinched.

Pacific trade ministers reached agreement on the Trans-Pacific Partnership that will cut trade barriers and set common standards for 12 countries, an official familiar with the talks said on Monday.

(Reporting by Tetsushi Kajimoto; Editing by Nick Macfie)