Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) said it plans to invest over $1 billion in Thailand during the next two years to strengthen cloud computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure across the country.
The technology company announced Tuesday that the investment will be used to expand its data center presence and support programs aimed at developing local digital and AI talent. The announcement follows a meeting between Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith and Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
Part of the funding will also be directed toward cybersecurity initiatives and sovereign technology capabilities within Thailand.
According to Microsoft, the investment is intended to help accelerate the adoption of AI across the Thai workforce, which the company views as an important driver of productivity and long-term economic growth.
Smith noted that a significant gap remains in the spread of artificial intelligence technologies between advanced economies and developing markets, and said the initiative will build on Microsoft’s existing partnerships in Thailand.