SoftBank in talks for major data center project in France

SoftBank Group founder Masayoshi Son is negotiating with French President Emmanuel Macron to launch a major AI data center project in France, according to people familiar with the discussions. The initiative could involve a multibillion-dollar investment, with Son reportedly considering an allocation of up to $100 billion, though the final figure may be lower depending on priorities. The project stems from Macron’s direct proposal during a recent meeting in Tokyo, where he pitched the idea to Son. The discussions remain confidential, but sources suggest Son was intrigued by the proposal, given Macron’s personal involvement. The unveiling of the project could occur as early as this month, marking a significant step in SoftBank’s global expansion of AI infrastructure. SoftBank has been actively investing in AI-related ventures, and this potential French project aligns with its broader strategy to build out data center capabilities worldwide. The scale of the investment, if confirmed, would position France as a key player in Europe’s AI development race. Macron’s direct approach to Son reportedly caught the Japanese entrepreneur’s attention, as he is accustomed to receiving such inquiries from corporate leaders rather than heads of state. This has accelerated the review process, with both parties now assessing the feasibility and impact of the initiative. The project’s details remain unclear, but sources indicate it would be part of SoftBank’s long-term plan to strengthen its AI and cloud computing infrastructure. If finalized, it could also bring significant economic benefits to France, reinforcing its position in the tech sector.