How data center ownership rules are changing

The loosening of foreign ownership restrictions is a positive step in the right direction for Vietnam’s regulated data center industry, according to Dr. Glen Duncan, Head of Data Center Research, Asia Pacific, JLL.

“In terms of data center capacity, Vietnam is still a developing market compared to the regional hubs,” says Duncan. “Foreign operators will bring additional skills and capabilities to build large-scale data centers in the country, accelerating its digital economy.”

“International operators have sophisticated business models, connectivity, cloud ecosystems, AI capabilities, and operational efficiencies, which can lead to lower costs and greater sustainability,” Duncan says.

However, he believes Vietnam can enhance its competitiveness by building up its existing capabilities with global expertise.

“By collaborating with international partners and adopting best practices, the country can eventually position itself as a sub-regional data center hub for neighboring countries like Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar," he says.