The SoftBank Group (SBG), led by Chairman Son Masayoshi, is set to embark on a massive investment in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure in France.

According to a Bloomberg News report on the 30th (local time), the SoftBank Group plans to invest a total of 75 billion euros (approximately 131.8 trillion won) to construct a 5 GW (gigawatt) AI data center.

In the first phase, 45 billion euros will be invested by 2031 to build a data center with a capacity of 3.1 GW in the Hauts-de-France region north of Paris. The company stated, "This project is the largest AI infrastructure investment ever made in Europe," adding, "We will secure additional sites across France to help it leap forward as a European hub leading next-generation digital infrastructure."

The investment plan is reported to have been initiated following discussions between French President Emmanuel Macron, who visited Japan last month, and Chairman Son. Previously, in an interview with French media, Chairman Son highly praised President Macron's strong commitment to his economic growth strategy.

This project is scheduled to be officially announced at the upcoming 'Choose France' summit. The event is an annual investment promotion hosted by the French government and chaired by President Macron.