Survey Shows 72.5% Back Thailand as Data Center Hub
Over 72% of Thai industry leaders support developing data centers as critical infrastructure for AI and cloud technologies, but experts warn that water scarcity, power demands, and weak cybersecurity laws pose significant risks to the plan.
Montri Mahapruekspong, Vice President of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), said data center investment plays a crucial role in upgrading the country's digital infrastructure and supporting development of cloud, AI, and big data technologies. This would enhance production efficiency and strengthen Thailand's industrial competitiveness. However, investment promotion must go hand-in-hand with efficient resource management and conditions ensuring concrete benefits for Thai businesses and the economy.
The FTI CEO Poll 51, conducted in July 2025 on "Industrial perspectives on data center investment in Thailand," found that 72.5% of industry leaders view data center investment as highly important for economic and industrial development. Thailand's strongest readiness is in internet and telecommunications networks, followed by electrical systems and energy security, while data protection laws and cybersecurity systems still need urgent development.
Industry leaders expect data centers to serve as critical infrastructure supporting big data, AI, IoT, and automation for product and service development, cost reduction, and production efficiency gains. The investment would also open opportunities for Thai businesses in construction, electrical systems, cooling systems, equipment, and maintenance—creating high-skilled jobs and domestic value addition.
The FTI proposes that government investment incentives be linked to technology transfer, joint research and development with businesses and Thai educational institutions, and workforce training in AI, cloud, and data analytics. Support should extend to Thai digital entrepreneurs and startups developing software, services, and platforms connected to data centers to build value and reduce dependence on foreign technology.
However, most industry leaders remain concerned about water availability in data center areas, which could be insufficient for growing demand and create competition for resources with other industries and communities. This could strain electrical infrastructure, impact power grid security, and increase electricity costs for other users. Additionally, unclear or outdated laws, standards, and regulatory systems for rapidly evolving technology pose cybersecurity and data protection risks that could damage investor confidence and public trust.
