Softbank to invest in AI data centers in France

Softbank to invest in AI data centers in France

Softbank to invest in AI data centers in France

https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/biz/archives/2026/06/01/2003858302

Publish Date: 2026-05-31 12:00:00

Source Domain: www.taipeitimes.com

  • Softbank Group Corp plans to invest up to 75 billion euros (US$87.44 billion) to build 5 gigawatts of AI data center capacity in France, making it a key European hub for AI infrastructure.
  • The first phase involves an initial 45 billion euro investment to create 3.1GW of AI data center capacity in the Hauts-de-France region by 2031.
  • This major investment initiative is influenced by diplomatic discussions between French President Emmanuel Macron and Softbank founder Masayoshi Son.
  • Alongside Softbank, Schneider Electric SE is partnering to develop a hub for AI infrastructure and robotics manufacturing in Dunkirk.
  • The investment plans align with a broader strategy by Softbank, which includes a large-scale data center project in Ohio and participation in a US$500 billion initiative named Stargate in partnership with several major global corporations.