US-based cloud service provider Equinix will invest 16 billion baht over the next decade to develop data centres in Thailand, as approved by the Board of Investment (BoI).

This initiative aligns with Thailand's goal to become a digital hub for the CLMVT region, comprising Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Thailand, which collectively have a population exceeding 250 million.

The first-phase investment totals 7.1 billion baht, and operations are set to begin by 2027.

Narit Therdsteerasukdi, BoI secretary-general, highlighted Equinix's choice of Thailand as strategic, given the country's strong digital infrastructure, widespread internet use (85% penetration), and state cloud policies fostering foreign investments.

Equinix's presence is expected to catalyze new business opportunities across industries like manufacturing, finance, retail, and tourism.

The company, with 260 data centres in 72 countries, offers co-location services allowing businesses to rent space for their IT equipment.

The BoI has received 47 project proposals totaling 173 billion baht, reflecting strong interest from data centre and cloud service providers.