EU to Build Seven AI Gigafactories to Rival US, China

The European Commission has announced an investment of €10bn ($11.5bn) to build seven artificial intelligence gigafactories, intended to strengthen the European Union's technological position relative to the United States and China.

Five projects were originally planned, but following strong interest from member states, the number was increased to seven. The Commission also expects to attract at least €20bn ($22.8bn) in private investment.

The new centers will combine cutting-edge AI chips, cloud services, data centers, software and high-speed networks, complementing the 19 existing AI factories already operating in Europe.

According to European Commissioner Henna Virkkunen, access to extensive computing power is becoming a strategic necessity.

Consortia of technology companies, cloud providers, public institutions and investors can participate in the projects. Applications can be submitted until 12 November, with the results of the tender expected in early 2027.

(Reuters, mja)