Published on: March 11, 2026, 04:06h.

Updated on: March 11, 2026, 04:16h.

• Reports indicate the company is securing funds to reduce debt
• Elements Casino in Surrey acquired by the Semiahmoo First Nation’s economic development branch
• Great Canadian Entertainment manages casino operations across Canada

Great Canadian Entertainment has transferred its eighth casino in British Columbia to a First Nation, specifically Elements Casino Surrey to SE-MI-AH-MU Development Corp., which serves as the economic development division of the Semiahmoo First Nation.

Eighth Casino Transition

The Board of Directors at Great Canadian approved this sale, which is contingent on financial arrangements, closing terms, and necessary approvals from both the City of Surrey and relevant regulatory bodies.

“This announcement signifies the eighth contract we have finalized with First Nations in British Columbia for the divestiture of our provincial assets. We are delighted to see the Semiahmoo First Nation stepping into the casino industry with their acquisition of Elements Casino Surrey,” stated Matt Anfinson, CEO of Great Canadian.

“Our next course of action will be to collaborate with the SE-MI-AH-MU team to swiftly finalize this deal and then partner with SE-MI-AH-MU and the team at Elements Casino Surrey for sustained success.”

Debt Reduction Strategy

In December, Great Canadian sold Casino Vancouver to PDG, a fully owned subsidiary of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Other properties like Casino Nanaimo, Elements Casino Victoria, River Rock Casino Resort, and Chances Maple Ridge were also transferred to PDG.

Additionally, Great Canadian has announced the sale of Elements Casino Chilliwack to Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Ltd. and Hastings Casino in Vancouver to the Tsleil-Waututh Nation back in 2025.

Prior news reports indicated that Great Canadian raised between $650 million to $675 million from these sales to alleviate debt following its acquisition for $3.3 billion by a New York private equity firm in 2021. This situation created pressure for investors seeking returns on their investments.

A representative from Great Canadian previously informed Casino.org that they would not be providing comments regarding the media reports.

Advancing Economic Development

Great Canadian operates numerous casino establishments throughout Canada.

“This purchase marks a significant advancement in creating economic opportunities for the Semiahmoo First Nation, reinforcing our presence within our ancestral territory as a robust and enterprising business,” expressed Chief Harley Chappell of the Semiahmoo First Nation.

“Through this partnership, we aspire to generate meaningful advantages for our community, foster regional employment opportunities, and contribute to the long-term prosperity of our people.”