CWA Canada president says Saudi buyout of EA should trigger ‘virtually every alarm bell’
Canada’s Communications Workers of America (CWA) chapter has called on the Canadian government to examine Electronic Arts’ proposed $55 billion acquisition, raising national security concerns about the deal.
The consortium acquiring EA consists of Saudi Arabia’s state-owned Public Investment Fund (PIF), private equity firm Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners, founded by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump. CWA Canada president Carmel Smyth stated the transaction should “trigger virtually every alarm bell,” advocating for government scrutiny in the interest of national security.
Electronic Arts maintains a significant Canadian presence with multiple development studios in Quebec and Vancouver. The company develops major gaming franchises including Battlefield and EA Sports FC. The union’s concerns reflect growing scrutiny of foreign investment in technology and entertainment sectors, particularly involving state-backed investment vehicles. The proposed acquisition represents significant consolidation in the gaming industry and underscores broader geopolitical concerns surrounding foreign ownership of strategically important game development capabilities.