China expands rural data centres for AI

China is rapidly expanding its data centre capacity, particularly in western regions like China — Guizhou and China — Inner Mongolia, as part of its 'Eastern Data Western Computing' strategy. This initiative aims to support AI development by leveraging cooler climates and abundant renewable energy. Huawei has built its largest data centre in Guian New Area, China — Guizhou, contributing to local economic activity and job creation. However, analysts question the long-term economic benefits for host regions, noting limited wage growth and high provincial debt. China plans to nearly double its data centre capacity within five years, intensifying the tech race with the United States.