Government of Canada Partners

Canadian Heritage

Film & Video Policy and Programs Directorate

The Film and Video Directorate is the competent authority responsible for the domestic policy related to audiovisual treaty coproduction. As such, it monitors coproduction activity and assesses its impact on the Canadian Audiovisual Sector. The Directorate also provides input and policy advice regarding the Canadian audiovisual sector and industry to assist in the negotiation and administration of audiovisual coproduction treaties.

Canadian Audiovisual Certification Office (CAVCO)

CAVCO is responsible for recommending the certification of a production to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, where it meets all the Canadian content requirements of the Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit program. In the case of an audiovisual treaty coproduction, this recommendation is based on Telefilm Canada's evaluation of whether it complies with the applicable treaty requirements.

Telefilm Canada

Telefilm Canada is a public cultural agency in the Canadian Heritage Portfolio. It is the administrative authority responsible to assess applications from producers and ensure they meet treaty requirements. More than thirty years of experience analyzing treaty coproduction projects, as well as strong ties with various international cultural agencies, have placed Telefilm Canada in a position to provide invaluable help to producers with funding and legal arrangements for projects. Telefilm Canada also serves as an essential source of information on the Canadian market, its creators, and its infrastructure.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (DFAIT)

The Treaty Section of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (DFAIT) is a key federal partner on issues related to audiovisual treaty coproductions. It provides advice on treaties and Canada's international legal obligations towards treaties, as well as providing pertinent information on markets in partner countries. The Treaty Section also assists in preparing official documents such as Diplomatic Notes and Orders in Council for signature.

In January 2008, the Government of Canada announced a new policy governing the ratification of treaties by which all treaties must be tabled in the House of Commons prior to ratification.  Further information on Canada's treaty policy is available at the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (DFAIT)