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SoftBank Commits 75 Billion Euros to French AI Data Center Expansion

Japan's SoftBank Group plans to invest 45 billion euros over five years to construct artificial intelligence infrastructure in France. This marks the tech giant's largest European commitment in the sector. The initial phase targets 3.1 gigawatts of AI data center capacity across northern France's Hauts-de-France region, including facilities in Dunkirk, Bosquel and Bouchain by 2031. The full program encompasses 75 billion euros to deploy 5 gigawatts of capacity nationwide. SoftBank will partner with French engineering firm Schneider Electric to develop an industrial production cluster in Dunkirk. CEO Masayoshi Son emphasized France's industrial capabilities and talent base as key factors in positioning the nation as a leading European AI infrastructure hub. SoftBank shares have gained more than 70 percent in 2026 amid investor confidence in the company's infrastructure investments.