The US tariffs will negatively impact data centre construction and, as a result, drive up the cost of AI processing. Building data centres requires materials and supplies, construction equipment, electrical components, and cooling systems, even before IT and network infrastructure are deployed. As all construction costs increase, so will the cost of data centre builds, which will be passed on to enterprise customers, according to Yahoo Finance.

The current uncertainty makes long-term planning harder, and data centre design and construction require careful consideration and strategic planning for project delivery. Tariffs on steel, aluminium, and copper, materials used for data centre buildouts, will translate into higher costs. US tariffs will disrupt the internal US market because most components used in data centre construction are manufactured outside the US, and even US-made products are bound to become more expensive due to higher demand and the rising costs of imported raw materials.

Equipment, including electrical infrastructure and cooling systems, imported from countries with some of the highest tariffs, such as China, Taiwan, and other nations in APAC, will be more challenging to access, delaying data centre expansion plans. Although there has been a 90-day pause in the application of tariffs on all imported goods, the deadline could potentially cause more chaos from July 9, 2025, when the truce in the trade war is due to expire. The tariffs include rates of 32% for Taiwan or 46% for Vietnam, where many electronic components are manufactured, and will be back on again on that date. This deadline adds another spanner in the works for importers sourcing from these regions.

Beatriz Valle, a senior analyst at GlobalData, noted that the zeal in applying US tariffs seems contradictory because it will undermine the US administration’s plans to incentivise the AI market: “The tariffs will have the unintended consequence of making the US lose competitiveness in the global race for AI leadership. Other protectionist measures, such as the restrictions in the sales of semiconductors, implemented years before the tariffs, have had the opposite effect and strengthened the Chinese semiconductor market.

“Another unintended consequence will be the flourishing of data centres in domestic markets to avoid the financial impact of the US tariffs. This will spur new dynamism among European cloud computing companies as businesses look for alternatives to the traditional US-based hyperscalers. Sovereignty, compliance, pricing, latency, and security issues may lead enterprises to consider smaller cloud computing providers based within the EU.”

Looking at the global overview, supply chain disruptions will occur because many components used in data centre buildouts are sourced internationally. US companies may have to reconsider their expansion plans as demand for generators, switches, and transformers intensifies. Data centre components were already highly sought-after, even before the latest tariff spike. Essential hardware, including networking and server equipment, will be more expensive.

New construction proposals will be affected because the scarcity of power units or specialised cooling hardware will create supply chain bottlenecks. Overall, the US tariffs mean that data centre service providers will raise prices, for example, colocation providers renting out space in their data centres to other companies will charge their customers more. This will hurt the global market.

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“US tariffs: Impact on data centre construction” was created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData-owned brand.

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In a pivotal move to enhance the affordable housing landscape in Cambodia, the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction has forged a partnership with AGENT21 GLOBAL. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed on April 24, 2025, to advance affordable housing development projects catering to low- and middle-income families across 25 provinces and cities.

The formal agreement was witnessed by His Excellency, Secretary of State Leang Monirith, who represented Deputy Prime Minister Say Samal, alongside notable figures such as Mr. Prak Angara, Director General of the General Department of Housing, and Ms. Ly Chanlaksmy, Director General of AGENT21 GLOBAL.

This collaboration aligns seamlessly with the Royal Government’s National Housing Policy, which is committed to ensuring that all citizens have access to safe and dignified living conditions. During the signing ceremony, HE Leang Monirith praised the efforts of AGENT21 GLOBAL, highlighting their valuable contributions, including the development of model houses in Runta Ek Techo Sen and the Paeng Sang Development Area. The initiative also involves designing approximately 100 house models tailored to the preferences of low- and middle-income families, offering them choices in building their homes.

Mr. Prak Angara emphasized that this partnership will significantly enhance access to adequate housing for the targeted income groups, ultimately supporting the government’s objective of ensuring “every citizen has a place to live.”

This groundbreaking partnership marks a vital step towards addressing Cambodia’s housing challenges, equipping citizens with the necessary resources to secure homes that align with their needs and aspirations. As the nation strives for a brighter housing future, this initiative is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector to make affordable housing a reality.

Notably, AGENT21 GLOBAL partnered with a major company from Korea to transform the Runta Ek Natural Village and the Pai Sang Development Area into a city that blends Khmer-style architecture and contemporary design. (Read more)

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Ambassador Bawitlung pointed out the shared challenges and opportunities both nations face in rural development, emphasizing that nearly 50% of India’s population lives in rural areas. As India works towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, the government is eager to share its expertise with Cambodia to foster sustainable rural growth.

“The ongoing cooperation is crucial,” Ambassador Bawitlung stated. “India will continue to support Cambodia through additional assistance, including specialized training programs for officials in the Ministry of Rural Development.” This initiative is part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic growth and enhance knowledge sharing in rural development initiatives.

Minister Chhay Rithisen expressed sincere gratitude for India’s steadfast support, recognizing the impact of past collaborative projects. These initiatives have included integrated community development efforts focusing on water and sanitation, vocational training, and environmental protection initiatives to eliminate arsenic from drinking water around Tonle Sap Lake.

This collaboration marks a pivotal move towards improving infrastructure and rural development in Cambodia, underscoring the strong ties between India and Cambodia. Both nations remain committed to enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities, paving the way for a prosperous future.

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In a significant move to strengthen bilateral relations, the governments of Cambodia and Thailand have officially signed a joint agreement concerning the management, maintenance, and use of the Cambodia-Thai Friendship Bridge, also known as Stung Bot-Ban Nong Ien. The agreement was finalized during a high-profile meeting led by Samdech Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, and Her Excellency Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand.

The signing, which took place on April 23, 2025, underscores the commitment of both nations to foster collaboration and enhance connectivity across their borders. In conjunction with this agreement, the two governments also reached an important milestone by agreeing to construct the Phsar Prum-Ban Phakat border bridge. This initiative aims to boost economic ties and facilitate smoother movement between the two countries.

To further promote infrastructure development, both nations signed a memorandum of understanding for a feasibility study to upgrade the quality of National Road No. 57, which links Battambang to the Prum International Gate. This study will be conducted in collaboration with the Cooperation Agency for the Economic Development of Neighboring Countries of Thailand.

In addition to these pivotal agreements, Cambodia and Thailand also committed to enhancing cooperative efforts in several key areas by signing four additional documents:

1. An Agreement on the Use of Labor to streamline labor mobility between the two nations.
2. A Memorandum of Understanding focused on cooperation in the labor sector.
3. A Memorandum of Understanding aimed at transboundary environmental protection between Cambodia’s Ministry of Environment and Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
4. An Exchange of Letters concerning the strengthening of capacity at the Cambodia-Thailand Professional Development Institute.

These agreements reflect a progressive step in the relationship between Cambodia and Thailand, highlighting their dedication to mutual growth and sustainable development. As both nations look towards the future, these collaborations are expected to yield significant benefits for their respective citizens and bolster regional prosperity.

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In a significant move to rejuvenate its construction sector, the Ministry of Economy and Finance announced today the continuation of additional tax incentives for stalled building projects in Sihanoukville. This initiative, aimed at developments underway since 2016, will remain in effect until the end of 2028.

According to an official notice, the Royal Government’s decision extends property tax exemptions previously established under the “Special Program to Promote Investment in Sihanoukville Province 2024.” Originally set to expire at the end of 2025, these incentives will now cover projects regardless of their completion status as of 2025.

This extension applies to projects that are part of the Special Program and those that are not, highlighting the government’s commitment to stimulating growth in the region.

Furthermore, project owners of stalled developments that have yet to benefit from existing tax incentives can apply to the Preah Sihanouk Provincial Investment Promotion Working Group for additional support. However, it’s important to note that this property tax exemption will not cover any taxes, including administrative penalties, that have already been paid.

This proactive approach is intended to bolster investor confidence and encourage the resumption of construction activities in Sihanoukville, fostering economic growth and development in the province.

For more information, project owners are encouraged to contact local government authorities to explore available opportunities.

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Vingroup, a prominent Vietnamese conglomerate, has officially broken ground on a groundbreaking modern tourist development titled Vinhomes Green Paradise in Can Gio, a coastal area located about 50 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City. The project, which represents an investment of over 217.05 trillion VND (approximately USD 8.44 billion), aims to create a world-class urban area while adhering to Environment-Social-Governance (ESG) standards.

Spread across a sprawling 2,870 hectares, Vinhomes Green Paradise is envisioned as a harmony of people, nature, and technology, set to accommodate around 230,000 residents. The development aims to serve as a model for sustainability and ecological urban living on a global scale.

At the groundbreaking ceremony, Nguyen Viet Quang, Vice Chairman and CEO of Vingroup, emphasized a fresh approach to urban development in Can Gio, highlighting the need to balance growth with environmental conservation. “Our goal is to establish Vinhomes Green Paradise as a world-leading ESG urban area that reflects Vietnam’s commitment to sustainable development,” he stated.

One of the project’s key features is the planned connection to Ho Chi Minh City via a high-speed railway, allowing for a maximum speed of 250 kilometers per hour. This transport link is expected to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth.

The Vinhomes Green Paradise project will include a wealth of attractions and facilities, featuring the largest theater in Southeast Asia, a five-star international port capable of hosting luxury cruise ships, and two golf courses designed by renowned figures in the sport. Additionally, a 122-hectare resort will offer a Disneyland-style theme park, a safari, and a unique winter-themed attraction, positioning Can Gio as a premier tourism destination.

In line with its vision to become a financial and economic hub, the development will also provide over 2 million square meters of office, commercial, and hotel space, complemented by a mix of luxury residences and dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant.

The healthcare sector will also benefit from the presence of the Cleveland Clinic, which will aid in establishing Can Gio as a healthcare tourism destination through support in consulting, recruitment, and staff training.

With a focus on education, Vinhomes Green Paradise will offer a high-caliber Vinschool system, catering to both local and international students.

As part of a broader initiative, the Ho Chi Minh City Administration has outlined plans for the future of Can Gio District, designated to evolve into an ecological urban area with a vibrant marine economy, including a shipping port, free trade zone, and renewable energy projects. A key component of this vision is the proposed Can Gio International Transit Port, which carries an investment estimate of around $6 billion.

With the launch of Vinhomes Green Paradise, Vietnam is poised to redefine urban living in the region and enhance its standing on the global stage as a pioneer of sustainable urban development.

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Thailand’s central bank has announced a major relaxation of mortgage lending rules, raising the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio to 100% for all housing contracts beginning May 2025 through June 2026—an aggressive intervention aimed at reviving the nation’s sluggish real estate sector, which continues to reel from oversupply, weak demand, and soaring household debt, according to World. thaipbs, published on March 20, 2025.

Previously, the LTV ratio was capped between 70% and 90%, meaning borrowers could only secure loans for up to 70–90% of a property’s value. The recent change raises the LTV cap to 100%, allowing borrowers to finance the full value of a property without needing a down payment. This is considered a relaxation because it removes barriers for buyers, making it easier to access loans and purchase homes.

By increasing the LTV ratio to 100%, the Bank of Thailand aims to stimulate the struggling real estate sector, which faces oversupply, weak demand, and high household debt. This measure is designed to encourage home purchases and reduce excess housing inventory while posing minimal risks to financial stability.

Despite signs of macroeconomic recovery, the Thai property market remains under pressure, with home loans in 2024 declining by 13.4% year-on-year to THB 587 billion (USD 17.46 billion), while nationwide residential property transfer values fell 6.3%, according to the Government Housing Bank. The move comes against the backdrop of exceptionally high household debt, which as of September 2024 stood at THB 16.34 trillion (USD 486 billion), representing 89% of the country’s GDP, one of the highest ratios in Asia and a significant drag on private consumption and growth. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira underscored the urgency of sector revitalisation, noting, “This engine is large and hasn’t been fully operational for over 10 years.”

In addition to LTV rule adjustments, the government is also planning to reintroduce a reduced transfer and mortgage registration fee, previously cut to just 0.01% for homes valued up to THB 7 million (USD 208,395), a policy that expired last year.

Pichai further revealed that the ministry is exploring options to manage small-scale non-performing loans under THB 100,000 (USD 2,977), focusing on consumer debt restructuring with minimal fiscal impact. While acknowledging that the overall impact on economic growth might be limited, the central bank maintained that the current tight lending environment and cautious financial institution behavior would safeguard against systemic risks.

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The Government of Cambodia has officially announced the successful completion of a systematic land survey in Kampong Speu province, which has surveyed a total of 1,088,095 parcels of land. This significant milestone was celebrated during a ceremony chaired by His Excellency, Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many and His Excellency, Deputy Prime Minister Say Sam Al.

The systematic survey, concluded on December 15, 2024, is a crucial step towards enhancing land management and ownership clarity in the region. According to Mr. Kang Vannaro, Deputy Governor of Kampong Speu province, the province contains an estimated 1,100,910 parcels of land, meaning nearly all have now been surveyed.

As a result of this initiative, the government has issued a total of 59,953 property ownership certificates across 92 villages, 13 communes-sangkats, and 7 cities-districts within the province. The breakdown of certificates issued by district reveals the significant reach of this program: Baseth District received 11,086 certificates for 17 villages and 1 commune; Kong Pisey District saw 9,801 certificates for 15 villages and 2 communes; Phnom Sruoch District issued 5,790 certificates for 7 villages and 2 communes; Samrong Tong District provided 4,872 certificates for 8 villages and 2 communes; Thpong District awarded 10,383 certificates for 19 villages and 3 communes; Oudong Mechey City distributed 11,626 certificates for 14 villages and 1 sangkat; and Samaki Monichey District granted 6,395 certificates for 12 villages and 2 communes.

This achievement is part of Cambodia’s broader land registration initiative, which has now encompassed over 7.7 million plots, with approximately 1.5 million plots still pending registration. The Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction is optimistic about completing this remaining work soon, further solidifying property rights and enhancing land governance throughout the country. (Read more)

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In a strategic move amidst the global economic downturn, Japanese retail giant AEON is strengthening its presence in Vietnam with the groundbreaking of a new shopping mall. On April 19, 2025, AEON Vietnam commenced construction on the AEON HAI DUONG shopping mall in Hai Duong province, located just north of Hanoi. The project has an investment of VND 1.18 billion (approximately USD 45.61 million). According to theinvestor.vn on Apr 21, 2025.

Scheduled to open by the third quarter of 2026, the AEON HAI DUONG shopping mall will span around 3.6 hectares and is projected to create approximately 1,000 new jobs. The facility will also feature ample parking, accommodating around 600 cars and 1,200 motorbikes, enhancing accessibility for shoppers.

Tezuka Daisuke, President of Aeon Japan Vietnam Business and General Manager of AEON Vietnam, expressed optimism about the project, stating, “AEON HAI DUONG will help promote the consumption of high-quality local products from Hai Duong province and contribute positively to the sustainable development of the region.”

Naoki Ito, the Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam, praised AEON’s role in urban development across the country, noting, “It is wonderful that the urban development process in many parts of Vietnam is always accompanied by the presence of AEON shopping malls, which play an important role there.”

Strategically situated in the heart of Hai Duong city, the new mall will be easily accessible, linked to key locations such as the First Ring Road and Vo Nguyen Giap Avenue, and just 2 kilometers from the Hanoi-Hai Phong highway.

Vietnam has become AEON’s second most important market after Japan, with the company dedicated to enhancing customer experiences and meeting the growing demand through its modern retail ecosystem. AEON operates eight shopping malls in Vietnam, covering a total area of 462,000 square meters with a total investment exceeding USD 1.5 billion.

Despite various challenges, including a decline in customer numbers in the southern region and the temporary closure of some malls due to Typhoon Yagi last September, AEON reported that shopping activity in Vietnam remained stable last year.

The AEON HAI DUONG shopping mall project is set to become a significant addition to the region, fostering economic growth and providing a diverse shopping experience for the local community.

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The Kampong Kor Dam Development Project, along with the Stung Thap Dam Canal, is making significant progress, with construction now approximately 70% complete, as reported by the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology.

His Excellency Chan Sinat, Secretary of State for the Ministry, recently led a working group to evaluate the site and assess the advancement of the construction. The Kampong Kor Dam is vital for the lower reaches of the Stung Sen Basin, recognized as Cambodia’s largest and longest river.

During his inspection, His Excellency Chan Sinat emphasized that the dam will enhance the functionality of two major reservoirs upstream, creating an interconnected system of water management that benefits Preah Vihear and Kampong Thom provinces. This enhancement will serve the region effectively, regardless of seasonal changes, reaching as far as Zone 3 of Tonle Sap Lake and spanning tens of thousands of hectares.

The Kampong Kor Dam is designed to store approximately 300 million cubic meters of water. It will significantly impact local agriculture, offering the potential to irrigate around 300,000 hectares of productive land across Stung Sen City, Kampong Svay, Santuk, Prasat Ballang, and Sandan districts. (Read more)

As the project nears its completion, communities and stakeholders are optimistic about the upcoming benefits in irrigation and water management, promising to boost agricultural productivity and sustainability in the region.

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