Andhra Pradesh Favors Google Cloud Expansion: CM Chandrababu at Davos
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, during his visit to the World Economic Forum (WEF) summit in Davos, urged Google Cloud to consider Andhra Pradesh as a strategic hub for its technological and manufacturing ventures. In a meeting with Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian, the Chief Minister proposed the establishment of a design center in Visakhapatnam to develop custom chips for the company's servers. He also requested Kurian to set up a manufacturing unit in the state to integrate Google's server supply chain. Chandrababu Naidu assured full support from the Andhra Pradesh government for these initiatives.
Strengthening Ties with Google Cloud
Google Cloud, the world's third-largest cloud service provider, already has two cloud regions in Delhi and Mumbai. Recently, the company signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Andhra Pradesh government to establish a "Data City" in Visakhapatnam. The MoU also includes collaboration on artificial intelligence (AI) development and initiatives aimed at enhancing skill development opportunities for the state's youth.
Petronas to Invest in Green Energy
In another key meeting, Chandrababu Naidu held discussions with Muhammad Taufik, President and Group CEO of Malaysian oil and gas giant Petronas. The company is planning significant investments in green hydrogen, green ammonia, and green molecules in India, with a goal to produce 5 million tonnes of green ammonia annually by 2030. Taufik indicated plans to invest ₹13,000–15,000 crore in a green ammonia plant in Kakinada. Chandrababu Naidu also invited Petronas to invest in the Mulapeta petrochemical hub and the state's Global Capability Center, highlighting Andhra Pradesh's emerging role as a petrochemical hub.
Discussions with PepsiCo Executives
Chandrababu Naidu also engaged with PepsiCo International Beverages CEO Eugene Willemsen and PepsiCo Foundation Chairman Stephen Kehoe. PepsiCo, which already operates a bottling plant in Sricity, Andhra Pradesh, was invited to establish a PepsiCo Digital Hub in Visakhapatnam. The Chief Minister proposed expanding the company's Global Business Service Center to the city and setting up a manufacturing unit for the popular Kurkure snack line. He also suggested a partnership with the Andhra Pradesh Community Natural Farming (APCNF) initiative to benefit local farmers through PepsiCo's supply chain.
Engagement with Bahrain Officials
The Chief Minister met Hamad Al Mahmeed, a representative of Bahrain’s Prime Minister’s Office, and Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, CEO of Mumtalakat, Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund. Chandrababu Naidu highlighted Andhra Pradesh's business-friendly policies and invited them to invest in the state, emphasizing the ease of doing business and the state's speed in facilitating investment projects.
By showcasing Andhra Pradesh's potential for technological innovation, industrial growth, and sustainability, Chandrababu Naidu positioned the state as a prime destination for global investors during his engagements at the WEF summit.
