Anutin and Google discuss Thai data centre standards and US$1bn plan on September 23
Anutin’s New York talks with Google focus on clean energy, water management and digital skills as Thailand pursues sustainable data centres
- Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with Google executives in New York on September 23 to discuss the company's US$1 billion investment commitment in Thailand.
- The investment plan includes the development of a data centre in Chonburi and a Google Cloud region in Bangkok.
- A primary focus of the discussion was establishing environmentally sustainable standards for data centres, emphasizing clean energy, water management, and energy efficiency.
- Anutin also called for expanding the partnership to include cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI), digital skills, and Thailand's transition to a digital economy.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul discussed cooperation on environmentally sustainable data centre standards with Google in New York on September 23, 2026, alongside the company’s existing US$1 billion investment commitment in Thailand, government spokesman Ekkapob Pianpises said.
Anutin, who also serves as interior minister, visited Google’s Pier 57 office at 9am local time, equivalent to 8pm in Thailand. During the visit, Anutin met Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Alphabet and Google.
Anutin thanked Google for its confidence in Thailand and its US$1 billion investment commitment, valued at approximately 36 billion baht. The investment covers a data centre in Chonburi and a Google Cloud region in Bangkok.
The Thai government is ready to facilitate Google’s projects so they proceed smoothly and according to plan, Anutin said. The prime minister also called for long-term cooperation extending beyond infrastructure investment to artificial intelligence (AI), digital skills and Thailand’s transition to a digital economy.
Thailand puts energy and water use at centre of data centre talks
Anutin emphasised clean energy and sustainable data centre standards, identifying energy efficiency, water management and the welfare of surrounding communities as priorities, Ekkapob said. The prime minister described data centres as essential infrastructure for the digital economy and AI, whose development should advance alongside environmental sustainability.
Anutin said Thailand was ready to draw on Google’s knowledge, technology and experience to improve approaches and standards for environmentally responsible data centres. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society’s account of the meeting also confirmed discussion of renewable energy, environmental protection and systematic water management.
Porat said Google had already invested in Chonburi within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Google’s data centre development prioritises environmentally friendly standards and benefits for neighbouring communities, according to the government’s account of her remarks.
Porat also outlined plans for an institute described as “Open Data” to develop a skilled workforce, including digital expertise, according to Ekkapob’s account of the meeting. The initiative would provide opportunities for Thai people and Thai start-ups.
Porat reaffirmed Google’s commitment to remaining a long-term partner of Thailand.
