Thailand to build US$1.2bn national data centre
Mon 23 Mar 2015
The Thai government has announced today that it is planning to build a national data centre, with the value of the project expected to reach up to 40bn baht (approx. US$1.2bn or £800mn).
The move comes as part of the Thai Authorities’ scheme which aims to develop the country’s digital economy by pushing for increased national internet connectivity, as well as driving Thailand’s ability to compete in the global tech market.
A translation of the current policy reads: “To promote investment […] to develop information technology infrastructure, to enhance efficiency and to reduce costs of doing business which are crucial to the development of Thailand…”
According to Deputy Prime Minister Pridiyathorn Devakula the investment money for the new national data centre will not come from the government: “The private sector will be invited to invest in the project.”
Devakula added that the data centre was expected to be completed towards the end of 2016.
Last week, Devakula confirmed that the government’s ad hoc committee, chaired by Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha and tasked with preparing the future of Thailand’s digital economy, had chosen to continue with a planned auction of spectrum licences to be used for 4G wireless broadband services. The initiative is set for completion in August.
Earlier this month the government of Thailand also said that it will be offering tax incentives to encourage local and international businesses to establish new data centres within the country. Through its Board of Investment, the government is planning to offer promotional packages to attract interest from foreign companies looking to partner in joint data centre projects with local firms.
“Every industry is moving to use IT services, which will drive our country’s business value,” said state advisor Djitt Laowattana.
