licensing security program evaluation summary
This report presents the results of a program evaluation of the Canadian Grain Commission’s Licensing and Security Program.
The Canadian Grain Commission was established by the Canada Grain Act (the Act) in 1912, The federal government agency is mandated to, “in the interests of producers, establish and maintain standards of quality for Canadian grains and regulate grain handling in Canada to ensure a dependable commodity for domestic and export markets”.
About this evaluation
The evaluation was conducted in accordance with the Treasury Board’s Policy on Results, which requires departments to measure and evaluate performance and use the resulting information to manage and improve programs, policies and services. The Audit and Evaluation Services team of the Canadian Grain Commission conducted this evaluation during the 2024 to 2025 fiscal year, as part of the Canadian Grain Commission’s Risk-Based Audit and Evaluation Plan.
Evaluation findings and recommendations are intended to inform current and future program and policy decisions. This is the first time this program has been evaluated independently by the Canadian Grain Commission’s Audit and Evaluation Services team. An internal audit of Licensing and Compliance was completed in 2012.
About the program
The work of the Canadian Grain Commission benefits Canadian grain producers, other stakeholders in the grain sector, and all Canadians in an evolving and competitive grain sector. One important aspect of the grain sector in Canada is producer protection. The Canadian Grain Commission’s Licensing and Security Program plays a vital role supporting the organization’s mandate as set out in the Canada Grain Act. The program also supports the organization’s key goal of ensuring farmers are fairly compensated for their grain.
The program’s authority stems from the Act and the authority delegated to them by the Commission. In By-law No.5, enacted 2022 and amended on June 27, 2025, the Commission delegates some powers, duties and functions to the Licensing and Security Program to carry out on their behalf.
The Act requires most grain companies that deal in or handle grain grown in western Canada, including elevators and grain dealers, to be licensed.
The Canadian Grain Commission’s Licensing and Security Program plays a vital role in maintaining the stability and reliability of Canada’s grain handling system. By enforcing stringent licensing requirements and providing financial safeguards, the Canadian Grain Commission promotes fair treatment of grain producers and mitigates against potential risks.
Findings, recommendations and management action plans
The Appendix 1: Findings, recommendations and management action plans summarizes findings and recommendations identified during the program evaluation that require management action plans.