DAVOS:  Japan's economy minister, who has been accused of accepting bribes from a construction company, says he will make a decision on his future in the coming week.

Economy and Fiscal Minister Akira Amari, who denies any wrongdoing, said Friday: "I'm sorry I'm causing trouble for the prime minister."

He said an investigation into the allegations is underway and he expects to hold a news conference in the next week to speak to his future in the government of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. He said: "I will make myself and my position clear."

Amari is one of the most trusted members of Abe's Cabinet and served as Japan's top negotiator for the 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership trade pact.

The Weekly Bunshun magazine reported that Amari and his aides allegedly accepted at least 12 million yen ($103,000) in cash and hospitality from the construction company over the past three years.