In a significant move for Thailand’s digital economy, Prime MinisterPaetongtarn Shinawatra welcomed a $1 billion investment from Google to construct the country’s first data centre and cloud region. This announcement was made during a meeting with Ruth Porat, Google’sPresident and Chief Investment Officer, at the Government House in Bangkok on September 30, 2024.
Digital Transformation Strategy
Prime Minister Shinawatra expressed enthusiasm for the investment, underscoring its alignment with Thailand’s digital transformation strategy. “Google’s services have become an integral part of daily life for many Thais,” she remarked, pointing to the widespread usage of platforms like Google Search, Maps, and Gmail. The Prime Minister highlighted that this investment is a cornerstone for empowering citizens and enhancing digital literacy nationwide.
Creating Jobs and Opportunities
According to Google, the new data centre will generate approximately 14,000 jobs annually until 2029. The investment aims to bolster digital infrastructure and facilitate artificial intelligence (AI) adoption throughout Southeast Asia. “As AI transforms industries, it is more important than ever to educate and upskill Thais to use this technology,” noted Jackie Wang, Google’s Country Director for Thailand and the Philippines.
The data centre will be situated in Chonburi, an eastern province of Thailand, while the cloud region will be established in Bangkok. This strategic placement is expected to meet the growing demand for Google Cloud capabilities, alongside its popular services. The decision to invest in Thailand comes as the country’s digital economy is projected to reach $50 billion by 2025, making it the second-largest in Southeast Asia.
Government Support and Future Prospects
The groundwork for this monumental investment was established last year when former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Google. This agreement set the stage for increased collaboration to enhance Thailand’s digital competitiveness. The current government is also committed to refining regulations and expanding clean energy initiatives to create a more attractive environment for global tech investments.
“We are pleased to acknowledge that Google and the Board of Investment have been working closely together to explore this establishment,” Prime Minister Shinawatra stated, reinforcing Thailand’s potential as a regional hub for technology.
Conclusion
Google’s $1 billion investment marks a pivotal moment for Thailand’s digital landscape, positioning the country as a key player in Southeast Asia’s tech arena. With ongoing efforts to foster digital literacy and a commitment to innovation, Thailand is well on its way to attracting further investments in the tech sector, ensuring a prosperous future for its citizens and businesses.
