Canadian Content Obligations
Broadcasting licences come with Canadian content commitments. We check whether they're being met.
What Is Canadian Content?
Canadian content — often called "CanCon" — refers to programming that meets specific criteria set by the CRTC for qualification as Canadian. For television, this is determined by a point system that considers the nationality of key creative personnel (director, writer, lead performers) and whether production costs are spent in Canada.
For radio, Canadian content is defined by the MAPL system: Music, Artist, Performance, and Lyrics. A song qualifies as Canadian content if it meets at least two of the four MAPL criteria.
The CRTC requires broadcasters to devote a minimum percentage of their programming schedule and expenditures to Canadian content. These requirements are conditions of licence — meaning they are legally binding commitments that broadcasters accepted in exchange for the privilege of operating on public spectrum.
Why It Matters
Without Canadian content requirements, market economics would push broadcasters toward cheaper imported programming — particularly American content that can be acquired at a fraction of the cost of original Canadian production. CanCon rules exist to ensure that Canadian stories, perspectives, and talent have a place in the broadcasting system.
These rules also support a domestic production industry that employs thousands of Canadians in creative, technical, and administrative roles. When broadcasters meet their CanCon commitments, the benefits flow through the entire cultural ecosystem.
What We're Watching
CBA monitors Canadian content compliance across major broadcasters. We focus on whether licence conditions are being met, whether the spirit of CanCon commitments is being upheld alongside the letter, and whether broadcasters are seeking to reduce their obligations through licence amendments or policy changes.
The broadcasting landscape is shifting rapidly as audiences move to streaming platforms. The question of how Canadian content rules apply in this new environment is one of the most important policy debates currently before the CRTC.
What You Can Do
- Learn how to intervene in CRTC proceedings that address Canadian content requirements
- File a complaint if you believe a broadcaster is not meeting its CanCon licence conditions
- Join our email list for updates when important CanCon proceedings open for public comment