Dhaka, July 9 -- Asian stock markets showed a mixed performance on Wednesday, reflecting investor caution as the Trump administration continues its aggressive push for revised trade agreements ahead of looming tariff deadlines.

Japan's Nikkei 225 edged up 0.2% to 39,764.02, and South Korea's Kospi rose 0.5% to 3,132.02. Both Tokyo and Seoul are negotiating with Washington to avoid higher tariffs scheduled to take effect on August 1. Analysts say car and steel exports remain key sticking points in the talks.

"Sector-specific exemptions are proving to be the toughest challenge," noted Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management. "Japan and Korea are lobbying hard for relief, but the U.S. appears unlikely to offer concessions," he added.

Chines...