Japanese firms invest in FPT’s Nvidia AI-powered data center in Vietnam

Sumitomo Corp. and SBI Holdings, two major Japanese firms, have announced their decision to acquire 20% stakes each in FPT Smart Cloud Japan, a subsidiary of Vietnam’s leading IT company, FPT Group.

The use of Nvidia’s AI-powered solutions at FPT Smart Cloud Japan underscores the significance of cutting-edge technology in meeting the growing demands of AI-driven industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing.

The investment, set to close in May 2025, aims to support the growing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the region.

FPT Smart Cloud Japan was established in late 2024 to expand the company’s AI infrastructure and data center operations.

The deal highlights the increasing role of AI in driving investments in data centers, which are essential for powering AI technologies.

This investment comes amid a global push for enhanced infrastructure to meet the soaring energy needs of AI. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang recently met with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, lobbying for more electricity generation to support AI growth.

Huang noted Japan’s leadership in robotics and industrial manufacturing, emphasizing that energy is crucial to developing AI technologies.

Japan, which has historically faced challenges with energy resources, is exploring various options to address the increased demand for electricity.

These include restarting nuclear reactors, increasing imports of fossil fuels, and even investing in a $44 billion liquefied natural gas project in Alaska.

As AI technologies continue to transform industries, the demand for energy, data centers, and AI-powered solutions will only intensify.

The investment in FPT Smart Cloud Japan and ongoing discussions in Japan reflect the strategic efforts to build the necessary infrastructure to support the future of AI.