Massive Investment Powers AI and Cloud Expansion
Google invests €5 billion to expand its data centres and AI infrastructure in Belgium. The company launches its largest Belgian project, creating 300 jobs and strengthening Wallonia’s role in Europe’s data economy. This move marks one of Belgium’s biggest technology investments and reinforces Google’s commitment to Europe’s digital transformation.
Google expands its Saint-Ghislain campus to enhance access to AI and cloud services across Europe. “With today’s announcement, Google deepens its roots in Belgium, extends its investments, and drives AI-powered transformation,” said Bikash Koley, Vice President for Global Infrastructure at Google.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever welcomed the investment, calling it a milestone for Belgium’s economy and energy transition. “Google’s expansion shows trust in Belgium as a hub for digital innovation and sustainable growth. By building AI and cloud capacity, creating jobs, and securing clean energy, Belgium strengthens both its economy and leadership in Europe’s digital future,” he said.
The new facilities will operate entirely on carbon-free energy, connected to Belgium’s renewable grid, supporting both national and EU 2030 climate targets.
Wallonia Emerges as Europe’s Data Powerhouse
Wallonia celebrates another major milestone in its partnership with Google. The region first hosted Google’s Belgian data campus in 2009, and now the new Saint-Ghislain expansion cements its place as a leading digital hub.
“The €5 billion investment confirms Wallonia’s key position in Europe’s data processing and storage landscape,” said Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Government of Wallonia. “It creates high-tech jobs, boosts innovation, improves infrastructure, and builds AI expertise. This project enhances our digital sovereignty and fits our new regional digital strategy.”
Local leaders expressed pride and support. “This project builds an innovative ecosystem and opens opportunities for local companies. We’ll work closely with the inter-city agency IDEA to integrate Google’s development seamlessly,” said Florence Monier, Mayor of Saint-Ghislain.
Strengthening Belgium’s Digital Security and Global Standing
Defence and Foreign Trade Minister Theo Francken emphasized the importance of balancing innovation with national protection. “Belgium values cooperation with global tech leaders like Google,” he said. “We must strengthen cyber and data capabilities through open dialogue while protecting sovereignty and security.”
Google’s project will also deepen its partnership with Proximus, Belgium’s leading telecom operator, which is co-developing sovereign cloud services. “We welcome Google’s decision to invest further in Belgium,” said Fabrice De Windt, CEO of Proximus. “It reinforces our region’s leadership in digital innovation and strengthens our collaboration.”
Through this initiative, Google positions Belgium — and Wallonia in particular — at the heart of Europe’s sustainable digital revolution, driving progress through innovation, security, and carbon-free growth.
