SoftBank announced plans to invest up to €75 billion ($87 billion) in expanding French data center capacity. The Japanese tech giant aims to develop and operate up to 5 gigawatts of additional capacity, with the first phase targeting 3.1 gigawatts for the Hauts-de-France region by 2031. This represents the company's largest AI infrastructure investment in Europe.

The investment aligns with France's ambitions to become a leading AI destination, as noted by economic minister Roland Lescure. The three planned data centers in Dunkirk, Bosquel, and Bouchain will support growing European demand for AI computing power. SoftBank, which invests in and uses OpenAI, positions itself to capitalize on the expanding European AI market while reducing dependence on US infrastructure.

The move contrasts with growing US opposition to data centers over environmental concerns and grid stability issues. Despite these challenges, SoftBank earlier announced plans for an Ohio facility powered by a 9.2 gigawatt natural gas plant. The French investment reflects strategic geographic diversification amid regulatory uncertainty in the United States.