Amazon has announced a plan to invest more than €16 billion, approximately $18 billion, in Germany during 2027. The company revealed the details on Tuesday at the Invest in Germany Summit in Berlin, stating that the funds will be directed toward expanding its cloud computing, artificial intelligence, satellite internet, and media businesses. This new commitment adds to more than €100 billion that Amazon says it has already invested in the country since 2010, according to Asharq Al-Awsat.
The investment package includes €4.8 billion specifically allocated to expand Amazon Web Services' Frankfurt cloud region and its associated AI infrastructure. Punch reported that nearly five billion euros will go toward expanding operations in the Frankfurt area as demand for AI services grows. The plan also encompasses logistics upgrades creating over 3,000 roles, the rollout of the Amazon Leo satellite internet system, and new Prime Video productions filmed in Germany. Additionally, Amazon intends to establish a second robotics and AI research facility in the capital.
German officials framed the announcement as a significant boost for the nation's economy. Economy Minister Katherina Reiche stated that the investments would bolster the country's standing in global tech rivalries while generating employment and economic value. David Zapolsky, Amazon’s chief global affairs and legal officer, characterized Germany as a center for innovation and a prime target for European capital. Chancellor Friedrich Merz opened the event late Monday, noting that his coalition had launched a major reform and modernization effort aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles and reinforcing financial markets.
The summit, which concluded on Tuesday, brought together more than 200 corporate leaders from Germany and abroad. Reiche noted in a radio interview that companies had pledged investments totaling more than €220 billion at the event. The gathering also featured a partnership announcement between Berlin and Nvidia, focused on speeding up AI adoption in manufacturing. Merz held an on-stage discussion with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, highlighting the focus on high-tech sectors to help revitalize the stagnating economy despite challenges related to energy costs and skilled labor.