Google has announced plans to invest $1 billion in building data centers in Thailand, marking a significant move to enhance the country’s AI and cloud infrastructure. This investment is expected to contribute up to $4 billion to the Thai economy by 2029 and create 14,000 jobs annually over the next five years.
The tech giant, part of Alphabet Inc., will establish facilities in Bangkok and Chonburi, further solidifying Southeast Asia as a hotspot for tech expansion. The investment aligns with efforts by regional governments to attract foreign technology firms and boost economic growth. The initiative was revealed during an event in Bangkok, attended by Google executives and Thailand’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Google’s President and Chief Investment Officer, Ruth Porat, emphasized the company’s commitment to building cloud infrastructure across the region, highlighting its potential as a growth area. “We are investing in cloud regions, data centers, and subsea cables to bring cloud infrastructure closer to people and organizations in Southeast Asia,” she said.
This move is part of a broader trend, with global tech companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Nvidia also pouring billions of dollars into Southeast Asia to strengthen AI and cloud infrastructure. Earlier this year, Amazon announced a $9 billion investment in Singapore, while Microsoft has outlined a $4 billion plan for data centers across the region.
Google’s new data centers in Thailand will support its AI-powered services, including search, maps, and workspace tools. Since establishing a presence in Thailand 13 years ago, Google has trained over 3.6 million students, educators, developers, and small businesses in digital skills.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra welcomed Google’s investment, stating that it would accelerate the development of innovative digital services and unlock new economic opportunities for the country. The investment is also aligned with Thailand’s cloud policies, further promoting the nation’s digital transformation.
This substantial investment underscores Southeast Asia’s growing importance as a technology hub, with governments striking a balance between attracting foreign investments and maintaining digital sovereignty.
