Expanding AI and Cloud Infrastructure Across Europe
Google commits €5 billion to grow its data and AI infrastructure in Belgium. The expansion, the largest in the company’s Belgian history, will create 300 jobs and strengthen Wallonia’s role in Europe’s data network. The investment ranks among Belgium’s biggest technology projects, signaling Google’s deepening commitment to the continent’s digital advancement.
The company will expand its Saint-Ghislain campus in Wallonia to improve access to AI and cloud services throughout Europe. “With today’s announcement, Google strengthens its presence in Belgium, enhances its infrastructure, and drives AI-led transformation,” said Bikash Koley, Vice President for Global Infrastructure at Google.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever called the move a major step forward for Belgium’s digital economy and energy transition. “Google’s investment reflects strong confidence in Belgium’s innovative and sustainable potential. By expanding cloud and AI capacity, creating new skilled roles, and advancing carbon-free energy, this project reinforces Belgium’s position as a digital leader in Europe,” he said.
The new centers will operate entirely on renewable energy, aligning with Belgium’s and the EU’s 2030 climate objectives.
Wallonia Strengthens Its Digital Leadership
Wallonia embraces the investment as a defining milestone. Since 2009, Google has based its Belgian data operations in the region, and this new phase cements its role as a key player in Europe’s tech development.
“The €5 billion expansion confirms Wallonia’s status as a European hub for data storage and processing,” said Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Government of Wallonia. “It stimulates digital employment, encourages innovation, and supports regional infrastructure. This investment also enhances our digital sovereignty and supports the next phase of our digital strategy.”
Local leaders echoed this enthusiasm. “This project builds an active, innovative ecosystem that creates opportunities for new businesses. We will continue cooperating closely with inter-city agency IDEA to ensure the project’s full integration,” said Florence Monier, Mayor of Saint-Ghislain.
Strategic Partnerships Reinforce Security and Sovereignty
Defence and Foreign Trade Minister Theo Francken underlined the importance of balancing innovation and protection. “Belgium values collaboration with global technology firms like Google. We will strengthen our cyber and data systems through cooperation while safeguarding our national interests,” he said.
The expansion also strengthens Google’s partnership with Proximus, Belgium’s leading telecom operator, which develops sovereign cloud services with the tech company. “We welcome Google’s decision to deepen its investment,” said Fabrice De Windt, CEO of Proximus. “It enhances Belgium’s role in Europe’s digital innovation network and fortifies our strategic partnership.”
With this major initiative, Google positions Belgium — and Wallonia in particular — as a European powerhouse for AI, sustainable data infrastructure, and carbon-free technological progress.
