Working Parties

Since its creation in 1999, much of the BRT's work has focussed on preparing detailed recommendations for submission to the Government of Japan, the European Commission and the European Council. These recommendations are drafted by the BRT's various Working Parties for adoption at the next annual meeting.

The Recommendations are then submitted to the Leaders of the Government of Japan and of the EU Authorities, who respond orally or in writing. Previously they issued Progress Reports:

Over the years, the number and remit of the Working Parties has changed. Currently there are 4 Working Parties - each one has two leaders - one from the EU-side of the BRT and one from the Japan-side of the BRT. The existence of the Working Parties is guaranteed by the BRT's Terms of Reference:

Working Parties

1. In order to further [its] objectives..., the BRT establishes Working Parties to prepare and follow up both the discussions at BRT meetings and BRT joint recommendations.
2. Working Parties address regulatory and policy issues of common concern to business in both the European Union and Japan, where BRT input – in the form of recommendations to the Authorities on regulatory reforms and/or other policy initiatives - will add value.
3. Any Member can make a proposal for a new Working Party. The proposal must have the support of both the Co-Chairs, who must check that it will be backed by at least one Member from each side, prior to its being submitted to the BRT Annual Meeting for discussion.

The current Working Party structure is as follows:

Short name	Full name	Leader, EU-side	Leader, Japan-side
WP1	Trade Relations; Investment & Regulatory Cooperation; Financial Services, Accounting & Taxation	supported by	supported by
WP2	Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Healthcare & Well-Being
WP3	Digital Innovation & Mobility
WP4	Environment & Sustainable Development

Many recommendations are agreed by both sides of the BRT and submitted to both the Government of Japan and the EU Authorities, others may be proposed by just one side of the BRT and/or addressed to just one Authority.