Risks and Opportunities in Data Center and AI Investment in Emerging Markets By Dilek Aykut, Kyusam Jung, Selin Ozyurt, and Estefania Vergara Cobos AUGUST 2026

https://www.ifc.org/en/insights-reports/2026/risks-and-opportunities-in-data-center-and-ai-investment-in-ems Developing economies in Asia, Latin America and to a lesser extent Africa are emerging as data center hubs amid accelerating investment by global tech firms. But business leaders and policy makers must also invest in energy infrastructure, boost skills, and adapt regulation to ensure expanding AI infrastructure has a positive impact on development and jobs.