Canadian Grain Commission

The Canadian Grain Commission building at 303 Main Street, Winnipeg Manitoba

The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) is a federal agency in Canada responsible for regulating the grain industry. Established in 1912, the CGC operates under the authority of the Canada Grain Act and is part of the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada portfolio. The CGC's mandate is to ensure the integrity of grain transactions and to protect the interests of grain producers.

History

The Canadian Grain Commission was established in response to the need for a regulatory body to oversee the grain industry in Canada. The Canada Grain Act was enacted to provide a framework for the regulation of grain handling, grading, and inspection.

Functions

The CGC performs several key functions to support the Canadian grain industry:

• **Grain Grading**: The CGC establishes and maintains standards for grading various types of grain, ensuring consistency and fairness in the marketplace.
• **Grain Inspection**: The CGC conducts inspections to verify the quality and quantity of grain being traded.
• **Licensing**: The CGC licenses grain elevators and grain dealers to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
• **Producer Protection**: The CGC administers programs to protect the financial interests of grain producers, including the Payment Protection Program.
• **Research**: The CGC conducts research to improve grain quality and handling practices.

Organizational Structure

The CGC is led by a Chief Commissioner, an Assistant Chief Commissioner, and a Commissioner. These officials are appointed by the Governor in Council and are responsible for the overall management and direction of the CGC.

Key Programs

The CGC administers several programs to support the grain industry:

• **Harvest Sample Program**: This program collects samples of grain from producers across Canada to monitor quality and provide information to the industry.
• **Grain Research Laboratory**: The CGC operates a laboratory dedicated to researching grain quality and developing new testing methods.
• **Producer Car Allocation Program**: This program allows producers to ship their grain directly to terminal elevators, bypassing commercial grain handling facilities.

Impact on the Grain Industry

The CGC plays a crucial role in maintaining the reputation of Canadian grain in international markets. By ensuring high standards for grain quality and providing reliable inspection services, the CGC helps Canadian grain producers compete globally.

See Also

• Agriculture in Canada
• Canada Grain Act
• Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
• Grain elevator
• Grain trade