On September 23, at 09:00 (Eastern Time), Ekkapob Pianpises, a Government Spokesperson, disclosed that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul visited Google’s office at Pier 57 in New York City, United States, for discussions with Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google.
The Thai government expressed readiness to collaborate with Google to establish environmentally friendly data center standards and participate in community development, while Google indicated readiness to establish an Open Data institute to develop a skilled workforce and expand opportunities for Thai citizens.
Anutin expressed gratitude to Google for its confidence and investment in Thailand through a $1 billion (approximately THB 36 billion) investment plan to build a data center in Chonburi province and a Google Cloud Region in Bangkok. He affirmed that the Thai government is prepared to facilitate operations to ensure projects proceed smoothly according to schedule, while seeking to expand long-term cooperation beyond infrastructure investment—specifically in artificial intelligence, digital skills development, and driving Thailand’s transition toward a digital economy.
During the discussion, Ekkapob stated, Anutin highlighted key priorities, particularly the promotion of clean energy and sustainable data center standards. The prime minister noted that data centers serve as critical infrastructure for the digital economy and AI, leading the government to place high priority on development alongside sustainability in energy efficiency, water management, and local community care. He added that Thailand welcomes Google’s expertise, technology, and experience to jointly raise environmental guidelines and standards for data centers in the country.
Porat stated that Google has already invested in Thailand within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) in Chonburi province, prioritizing environmentally friendly standards and benefits for surrounding communities in its data center development.
Furthermore, Google plans to open an Open Data institute to support and develop a high-quality workforce, including in digital capabilities, opening opportunities for Thai citizens and startups. Google also reaffirmed its commitment to serving as a long-term partner for Thailand.
