BANGKOK — The Thai Prime Minister welcomed a major investment in Thailand announced by Google. The tech giant plans to invest $1 billion to build its first data center and cloud region in the country, marking a significant step in Thailand’s digital transformation strategy.
In a landmark announcement on September 30, 2024, at the Government House in Bangkok, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra welcomed Google’s decision to invest $1 billion in Thailand’s digital infrastructure.
The investment will fund the construction of Google’s first data center in the country and establish a new cloud region, marking a significant milestone in Thailand’s digital transformation journey.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn, hosting Google’s President and Chief Investment Officer Ruth Porat, emphasized the importance of this investment for Thailand’s digital economy.
“Google’s services have become an integral part of daily life for many Thais,” Shinawatra stated, highlighting the widespread use of Google Search, Maps, Gmail, YouTube, and Google Cloud across the country.
The groundwork for this investment was laid in November 2023, when former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Google and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. This agreement aimed to bolster Thailand’s digital competitiveness and accelerate its cloud-first digital transformation.
Paetongtarn’s government is committed to building on this foundation, with a focus on empowering Thai citizens through digital literacy. “We aim to boost self-improvement, productivity, and innovation, thereby reducing inequalities and providing greater opportunities for all,” the Prime Minister explained.
Thailand’s appeal as an investment destination for tech giants like Google stems from its robust digital infrastructure, stable utilities, and commitment to technological neutrality. The country boasts an extensive 5G network and a digitally active population, supporting continuous growth in digital demand.
To further enhance its attractiveness to investors, the Thai government is expanding clean energy initiatives and refining its regulatory landscape. Plans include establishing clean energy mechanisms such as the Direct Power Purchase Agreement (Direct PPA) and implementing a Cloud First Policy to improve government digital services, data governance, and cybersecurity.
“We are pleased to acknowledge that Google and the Board of Investment have been working closely together to explore the establishment of the first Data Center in Thailand.
This collaboration reflects Google’s confidence in Thailand and highlights the readiness of our robust digital infrastructure and skilled workforce,” she said.
In her closing remarks, PM Paetongtarn reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to becoming a thriving hub for Google, fostering growth for Thai people and businesses both domestically and within the ASEAN region.
This investment by Google not only signifies a major boost to Thailand’s digital infrastructure but also positions the country as an emerging leader in Southeast Asia’s tech landscape.
As Thailand continues to align its regulations with international standards and create a supportive environment for digital innovation, it is poised to attract more global tech investments in the coming years.
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