72.67 Billion Baht for ASEAN's Largest Data Center, Reaffirming Thailand's Digital Leadership

[11 June 2025] – WHA Industrial Development (WHAID), Thailand’s leading industrial estate developer, today announced a significant land sale agreement with Haoyang Data Center 1 (Thailand) Limited, a subsidiary of the prominent Chinese hyperscale data center operator Beijing Haoyang Cloud & Data Technology Co., Ltd. ("Haoyang"). This landmark deal sees Haoyang, with support from the Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI), investing over $2.2 billion (approximately 72.67 billion baht) to establish a hyperscale data center with an impressive 300-megawatt IT load within WHA Eastern Seaboard Industrial Estate 4 (WHA ESIE 4). The data center is expected to be operational by 2026 and will gradually integrate renewable energy solutions into its operations in the future.

Global Trends in Data Center Investment: A Focus on Sustainability and Edge Computing

The announcement of this land sale agreement comes at a time when the global data center industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the increasing demand for AI processing, the rise of edge computing, and a growing emphasis on sustainability.

Edge computing, a key trend, involves bringing computation and data storage closer to the source of data generation or consumption. This reduces latency, saves bandwidth, and enhances reliability, making it crucial for applications like autonomous vehicles, smart factories, and real-time analytics.

Mr. Lai Ning Ning, Chairman and CEO of Haoyang said “As global demand for computing power surges, driven by advancements in AI, Haoyang Data is excited to bring our extensive experience from Mainland China to Thailand. Our strategic investment in a 300 MW hyperscale data center facility in Rayong underscores our commitment to supporting the growing digital infrastructure needs in Thailand. We believe this project will enhance our global presence, significantly contribute to the region's development as a digital hub in Southeast Asia, and empower more Chinese enterprise to go overseas."

The land purchase agreement signing ceremony between WHA Industrial Development Public Company Limited and Haoyang Data Center 1 (Thailand) Limited.

Furthermore, the data center industry is expanding into new regions, including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and Africa, creating new opportunities for growth. This expansion is coupled with the development of innovative cooling systems, such as direct-to-chip cooling and immersion cooling, to improve energy efficiency and reduce their environmental footprint.

A Driving Force in China's Data Center Market

Haoyang Data Center 1 (Thailand) Limited is a leading player in China's rapidly expanding data center industry. The company is reputable for its high-standard data center, focusing on providing comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on operational excellence and long-term sustainable business development. Prioritizing carbon reduction strategies in its operations, Beijing Haoyang is committed to China's "Carbon Peaking and Carbon Neutralization" goals. Currently, Haoyang operates five major data centers in key economic hubs across China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Macao, and Shenzhen. The company's decision to choose Thailand as its first international market reflects its confidence in the country's potential as a regional digital center and its readiness of infrastructure.

The Challenges of Data Center Investment: A Global Perspective

Data centers, while critical for supporting the digital economy, present inherent challenges that host nations like Thailand face when attracting and managing large-scale data center projects. With our expertise in industrial estate development, WHAID is positioning itself as a leader in providing solutions that mitigate these challenges and maximize the benefits for Thailand.

Mr. Pajongwit Pongsivapai, Chief Executive Officer, WHA Industrial Development Public Company Limited (WHAID) said that “WHAID recognizes the challenges involved in developing and investing in data centers. We have continuously advanced our technology and capabilities to deliver comprehensive total solutions, with a focus on providing highly reliable infrastructure services that meet the needs of global investors—particularly in the data center industry, which requires energy stability, secure digital and communication systems, and sustainable water sources. WHA Group is fully equipped to meet these demands under the management of WHA Utilities and Power Public Company Limited (WHAUP), a specialist in integrated utilities and power energy solutions, ensuring complete support for data center operations in every aspect.”

WHAID's: A Smart Eco Industrial Estate Approach

• Supporting Government Initiatives: WHAID aligns its development strategies with the Thai government's proactive policies to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) in high-tech industries and AI. This includes leveraging tax incentives, supporting research and development, and fostering a skilled workforce.
• Shaping the Future as a Smart Eco Industrial Estate : WHA ESIE 4 is designed as a "Smart Eco Industrial Estate," prioritizing sustainability and environmental responsibility. This includes utilizing clean energy sources, implementing water recycling systems, and employing high-speed telecommunications infrastructure. The estate also incorporates measures to reduce environmental impact, such as solar-powered streetlights and carbon footprint reduction technologies.
• Strategic Location and Infrastructure: Located in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), WHA ESIE 4 offers a strategic location with access to robust infrastructure, including transportation networks and utilities.
• Community Development: WHAID is committed to creating a balanced environment that supports the quality of life for workers and entrepreneurs, fostering a safe, convenient, and fulfilling community.

Thailand's Digital Future: Ready for Sustainable Growth

The partnership between WHAID and Haoyang signifies Thailand's readiness to embrace the future of technology and AI investment. With a commitment to sustainable development, a strategic location within the EEC, and proactive government policies, Thailand is well-positioned to become a leading digital hub in the region. This investment not only fosters economic growth and job creation but also reinforces the country’s commitment to driving a long-term, sustainable digital ecosystem. It aligns with WHA Group’s mission, “WE SHAPE THE FUTURE,” to lead the way in building a modern and sustainable infrastructure. This partnership marks a pivotal step toward realizing that vision by leveraging AI technology to unlock new opportunities and pave the way for inclusive growth across all aspects.