Canadian Manufacturers' Association

Canadian Manufacturers' Association

Canadian Manufacturers' Association, founded 1871, incorporated by Act of Parliament 1902 "to promote Canadian industries and to further the interests of Canadian manufacturers and exporters." The CMA operated the forerunner of the present Canadian Trade Commissioner Service, helped create the Board of Railway Commissioners (which became the Board of Transport Commissioners, the Canadian Transportation Agency and, in 1987, the National Transportation Agency) and the Canadian National Exhibition, and conducted studies basic to the drafting of Ontario's Workmen's Compensation Act. To be a member, a company must manufacture in Canada and employ at least 5 persons. Most companies (75%) have fewer than 100 employees.

The association provides members with information important to the manufacturing industry, and submits its views to all levels of government on matters affecting manufacturers' interests. The CMA employs full-time staff across the country to help members solve problems relating to customs and excise, environmental standards, export and import procedures, energy, labour relations, research and development, taxation, technical standards, telecommunications and transportation.

The association is structured nationally, provincially and locally. In addition to its Toronto head office it maintains 7 divisional offices and an Ottawa office.