Thailand moves to tighten data centre rules

Thailand aims to tighten rules governing artificial intelligence (AI) data centres amid rapid expansion in the sector. Currently, around 35 AI data centres operate, with 49 under construction and 128 projects approved or under review.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized the necessity of aligning regulations with laws, standards, and national interests. The government has formed a new committee to draft these regulations, expected to be released next month.

Approximately 49 sites currently under construction will be required to halt their projects until the new rules are finalized. However, these sites can choose to suspend construction if they wish to do so.

The sector's growth is significant, with technology giants like Microsoft and Google investing billions of dollars in Thailand. Microsoft plans to invest over US$1 billion in AI data centre infrastructure and operations over the next two years. Google launched a new cloud region in Bangkok in January, expected to contribute over US$40 billion to the nation's economy over five years.

Nonetheless, concerns have arisen over Thailand's lack of regulation until now, leading to the hasty establishment of data centres without proper consideration or oversight. The energy ministry recently highlighted a Bangkok data centre storing 200,000 litres of diesel in underground tanks without authorization. Bangkok's governor also noted six applications for standalone data centres, with three already operating and the remaining three pending review.