The Canadian Home Wine Trade Association

Background

CHWTA WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1994 by the manufacturers of wine and beer kits who recognized that they could do some things better when working together than when working alone.

The association's first major task was to address the concerns of the Insitut National des Appellations d'Origine (INAO) regarding the use of particular names on wine kits. After this challenge, CHWTA established its own trademarks which are now found on many wine kits sold in Canada, and has successfully resolved other issues.

Setting the Standard

CHWTA IS THE LEADER IN establishing standards for wine and beer kits in Canada. These standards complement the Food and Drug Act, Consumer Product Labelling Act, and other federal acts and regulations related to prepackaged food. The CHWTA standards will be reflected in its members licensing agreements which allow members to use the CHWTA trademarks.

The Voice of CHWTA

CHWTA PLAYS A LEADING ROLE in ensuring the viability of the home crafted wine and beer industry across Canada. It educates and informs the media, policymakers, and regulators on the importance of the industry and establishes partnerships with other stakeholders to promote awareness of the industry and its significance.

With members across Canada and strong partnerships with other associations, CHWTA ensures a powerful and effective voice in federal and provincial government forums for the home crafted wine and beer sector. The association is instrumental in its work to prevent, reverse or modify taxation of wine and beer kits and products made in ferment on premise locations. It comments on any statutes or policies that affect its sector of the economy and corrects misinformation in the media or in published reports.