Google has allocated THB36 billion ($1 billion) to establish its first data center in Thailand, as part of its broader initiative to promote responsible AI adoption and digital skill development, announced in 2023.
In a blog post, Jackie Wang, Country Director at Google Thailand, revealed that the facility will be located in Chonburi province. The center aims to address increasing demand for Google’s cloud and AI services, including maps, browsing, and workplace tools, which are used by billions globally.
Wang highlighted that this investment marks progress on a deal Google made with the Thai government in November 2023, aimed at expanding digital skills access and encouraging the responsible use of AI. She noted that Thailand’s digital economy, the second largest in Southeast Asia, is expected to reach $50 billion by 2025. AI adoption in public and private sectors could unlock THB2.3 trillion by 2030.
The new data center is projected to contribute THB140 billion over five years and create 14,000 jobs annually from 2025 to 2029, according to a Deloitte study cited by Wang. Additionally, Google has trained over 3.6 million Thais, including students, educators, and business owners, in the past five years, with plans to train 150,000 more by 2026.
Google’s President and Chief Investment Officer, Ruth Porat, stated that these investments will “empower Thai businesses, innovators, and communities to leverage cloud and AI technology.”