Google greenlights the establishment of a global data center in Uruguay following the approval of environmental permits. This marks the tech giant’s second data center in the region, complementing its existing facility in Chile.
Álvaro Delgado, Secretary of the Presidency, expressed enthusiasm during a press conference, noting the significance of this move for Uruguay’s progress in innovation, technology, and the digital economy. The groundbreaking ceremony for the project is slated for March.
Having recently submitted the Environmental Impact Study and Project Document, Google is on track to secure Preliminary Environmental Authorization (AAP). In 2021, the company strategically acquired a 30-hectare site in the Parque de las Ciencias free trade zone near the capital, ensuring expansion options for its data centers and affirming its commitment to Uruguay and Latin America.
This development, coupled with the upcoming deployment of the Firminia submarine cable connecting the U.S. east coast to Punta del Este, positions Uruguay as a premier destination for major tech players. The project not only strengthens its standing as an innovation hub but also enhances access to Google services for South American users.
Google’s announcement was delivered by Eleonora Rabinovich, leader of Government Relations and Public Policy for Latin America, and Tamar Colodenco, Google’s Government Relations and Public Policy Manager for the Southern Cone, in a meeting at the Executive Tower with government officials.
The presidency highlighted that this announcement positions Uruguay advantageously to attract investments in the dynamic data storage market, driven by the explosive growth of Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and Big Data.
Uruguay’s appeal for businesses lies in its economically attractive region, reliability, multilingual and highly qualified talent, favorable time zone for global markets, cultural affinity, advanced telecommunications infrastructure, digitized society, and attractive tax benefits and government incentives. It stands out as a preferred base for international and regional headquarters for numerous global technology firms and companies.
