WINNIPEG, MANITOBA, CANADA — Representatives from 11 countries are attending the Cigi 45th International Grain Industry Program at the Canadian International Grains Institute in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, marking the first time Cigi is offering the program independently in a new grain marketing environment.

Starting July 3, the 10-day Cigi program will offer international customers classroom and technical demonstrations on Canadian grains including an introduction to the Canadian industry, inspection and grading, handling, transportation, marketing, and technology.

The 15 participants represent a research center, trading organizations, mills, and processing companies from Brazil, Cuba, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka and Uruguay. In addition, a representative from the Canadian Grain Commission is attending.

“This is the first time Cigi will independently run this program for international customers which aims to improve their understanding of the Canadian grain industry,” said Rick Morgan, Cigi manager of business development and director of the program. “The program will include presentations, discussions and hands-on demonstrations using Canadian field crops in Cigi’s pilot facilities that will give participants an opportunity to experience the processes involved with milling, baking, Asian products, pasta, special crops and analytical services. They will also have an opportunity to interact with industry representatives”

The group will tour a grain farm, primary elevator, the Canadian Grain Commission, and Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre while at Cigi. Toward the end of the program, they will travel to Vancouver BC where they will visit the CGC, a terminal elevator, a container facility and Port Vancouver.