€5 Billion Push for AI and Cloud Infrastructure
Google invests €5 billion to expand data and AI operations in Belgium. The project becomes the company’s largest Belgian initiative, creating 300 new jobs and boosting Wallonia’s data capacity. This commitment marks one of the biggest tech investments in Belgian history and signals Google’s deeper integration into Europe’s digital ecosystem.
The company expands its Saint-Ghislain site in Wallonia to accelerate AI and cloud access across Europe. “With today’s announcement, Google deepens its commitment to Belgium, expands our infrastructure, and opens new doors for AI-driven transformation,” said Bikash Koley, Google’s Vice President for Global Infrastructure.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever praised the project as a breakthrough for Belgium’s digital economy and green transition. “Google’s investment reflects strong confidence in Belgium as a hub for sustainable innovation,” he said. “By growing advanced cloud and AI infrastructure, creating skilled jobs, and securing carbon-free energy, Belgium strengthens both its economy and its leadership in Europe’s digital future.”
The new centres will run on 100% carbon-free energy, connecting directly to Belgium’s renewable grid and supporting the EU’s 2030 climate targets.
Wallonia Emerges as Europe’s Digital Powerhouse
Wallonia welcomes the expansion as a defining moment in its digital growth. Google first built its Belgian data campus there in 2009, and now reinforces the region’s role in Europe’s tech landscape.
“The €5 billion investment confirms Wallonia’s central position as a European hub for data processing and storage,” said Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Government of Wallonia. “It drives job creation, innovation, and digital skills, while improving infrastructure and boosting our region’s technological sovereignty.”
Local leaders echoed that message. “This project strengthens our innovation ecosystem and creates new business opportunities. We’ll continue working closely with inter-city agency IDEA to ensure seamless integration,” said Florence Monier, Mayor of Saint-Ghislain.
Strategic Cooperation Strengthens Security and Sovereignty
Defence and Foreign Trade Minister Theo Francken emphasized the need to balance collaboration and national protection. “Belgium values open cooperation with global tech leaders like Google,” he said. “We must strengthen cyber and data resilience while safeguarding our sovereignty and national security.”
The initiative deepens Google’s cooperation with Proximus, Belgium’s telecom operator, which develops sovereign cloud solutions with the tech firm. “We welcome Google’s decision to expand its investment,” said Fabrice De Windt, CEO of Proximus. “This move reinforces Belgium’s leadership in digital innovation and strengthens our strategic partnership.”
Through this expansion, Google anchors Belgium’s place at the crossroads of innovation, sustainability, and digital independence — shaping Wallonia into one of Europe’s strongest engines of carbon-free technological growth.
