Major Expansion to Boost Jobs and Digital Infrastructure
Google invests €5 billion in Belgium to grow its data centre network and AI systems. The move creates 300 jobs, strengthens Wallonia’s data capacity, and stands as one of the largest tech investments in Belgian history. The expansion highlights Google’s deepening presence in Europe’s digital transformation.
The company upgrades its Saint-Ghislain campus in Wallonia to improve access to AI and cloud technologies across Europe. “With today’s announcement, Google expands its Belgian footprint and advances AI-driven innovation,” said Bikash Koley, Google’s Vice President for Global Infrastructure.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever praised the investment as a major boost to Belgium’s green and digital economy. “Google’s decision shows strong confidence in Belgium as a centre of sustainable innovation. By building advanced AI and cloud infrastructure, creating skilled jobs, and using carbon-free energy, we strengthen our economy and lead Europe’s digital transition,” he said.
The new facilities will run entirely on carbon-free energy and connect to Belgium’s renewable power grid, meeting EU and national 2030 climate objectives.
Wallonia Strengthens Its Role in Europe’s Tech Network
Wallonia celebrates the investment as a defining step in its digital strategy. Google first opened its Belgian data hub there in 2009, and now expands its European operations from the same region.
“The €5 billion investment secures Wallonia’s role as a major European centre for data and AI development,” said Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Government of Wallonia. “It creates digital jobs, drives innovation, upgrades infrastructure, and builds our region’s technological sovereignty.”
Local leaders expressed strong enthusiasm. “This project enhances our ecosystem and encourages more companies to grow here. We’ll keep working with inter-city agency IDEA to integrate the project effectively,” said Florence Monier, Mayor of Saint-Ghislain.
Partnership Expands with Focus on Security and Sovereignty
Defence and Foreign Trade Minister Theo Francken emphasized cooperation and national protection. “Belgium values collaboration with global tech leaders like Google,” he said. “We strengthen cyber and data systems while firmly protecting national sovereignty and security.”
Google’s investment also deepens its collaboration with telecom operator Proximus, which develops sovereign cloud services with the company. “We welcome Google’s continued investment in Belgium,” said Fabrice De Windt, CEO of Proximus. “This strengthens our role as a European hub for innovation and reinforces our long-term partnership.”
Google’s initiative firmly positions Belgium as a key engine of Europe’s sustainable digital growth — blending innovation, job creation, and carbon-free energy into the next chapter of global technology leadership.
