The official, Long Yongtu, the most senior trade negotiator, said after talks in Geneva that he was confident a solution to the current impasse could be found.
Correspondents say the main difference concerns subsidies to Chinese farmers.
Mr Long's remarks came as the European External Affairs commissioner, Chris Patten, was starting a three-day visit to China. He also said China could join the WTO this year. Estrada 'at risk in prison' Islamic militancy on Shanghai agenda Philippines rebels deny killing cleric Powerful earthquake hits Taiwan Links to more Asia-Pacific stories are at the foot of the page.