Tech Giant Expands European Footprint Through Wallonia
Google invests €5 billion in Belgium to expand its data centres and AI infrastructure. The project creates 300 new jobs and increases data capacity in Wallonia, marking one of the largest tech investments in the country’s history. The move strengthens Google’s long-term commitment to Europe’s digital transformation.
The company expands its Saint-Ghislain campus to advance AI and cloud access across Europe. “With today’s announcement, Google deepens its roots in Belgium and drives AI-based transformation,” said Bikash Koley, Vice President for Global Infrastructure at Google.
Belgium’s Prime Minister Bart De Wever hailed the investment as a milestone. He said it reinforces Belgium’s position as a hub for digital innovation and green growth. “By building advanced AI and cloud infrastructure, creating skilled employment, and securing carbon-free energy, Belgium strengthens both its economy and its climate transition. This project solidifies our place in Europe’s digital leadership,” he said.
The facilities will operate entirely on carbon-free energy, linking directly to Belgium’s renewable grid in line with EU 2030 climate goals.
Wallonia Rises as Europe’s Data Powerhouse
Wallonia welcomes Google’s continued growth. The company established its first Belgian data centre campus in Saint-Ghislain in 2009 and now anchors its largest European project there.
“The €5 billion investment confirms Wallonia’s central role as a European hub for data processing and storage,” said Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Government of Wallonia. “It drives digital employment, fuels innovation, enhances local infrastructure, and strengthens AI expertise. It also boosts our region’s digital sovereignty and fits perfectly within our new digital strategy.”
Local leaders echoed the enthusiasm. “This project strengthens our innovative ecosystem and opens doors for other companies. As local representatives, we commit to supporting Google’s integration with the help of inter-city agency IDEA,” said Florence Monier, Mayor of Saint-Ghislain.
Strategic Project Connects Technology and National Security
Belgium’s Defence and Foreign Trade Minister Theo Francken emphasized the project’s strategic relevance. “Belgium values cooperation with global technology leaders like Google. We must strengthen cyber and data capacity while protecting sovereignty and national security,” he said.
The initiative also reinforces Google’s partnership with Proximus, Belgium’s telecom operator developing sovereign cloud services with the US firm. “We welcome Google’s renewed investment in Belgium,” said Fabrice De Windt, CEO of Proximus. “It enhances our region’s influence in European digital innovation and deepens our collaboration.”
Through this landmark project, Google advances Belgium’s role as a leader in sustainable, secure, and AI-driven digital infrastructure — setting the foundation for Europe’s next phase of carbon-free technological growth.
