IFC is shifting its infrastructure focus in Asia-Pacific toward digital infrastructure, marking a strategic pivot from traditional sectors like fibre and towers. This change reflects the growing demand for data centres and related technologies in the region. Vikram Kumar, IFC’s director for infrastructure in APAC, emphasized that digital infrastructure now requires the maximum amount of capital moving forward.

While traditional projects remain part of the IFC’s portfolio, the surge in digital demand—driven by cloud computing and 5G expansion—has redefined priorities. The agency’s increased emphasis on digital projects could reshape investment flows in APAC, where tech adoption is accelerating. Critics argue this shift might divert resources from foundational infrastructure, but proponents see it as aligning with global trends.

For investors, this signals both opportunity and risk, depending on how well the IFC balances innovation with stability.