Sources: NTT Data is in advanced talks to build a data center for Anthropic in Osaka of up to 500 MW, among Japan's largest, potentially costing $6.3B

The cost of high-density data center construction in Japan increases by billions of dollars.

NTT Data Group is reportedly in advanced negotiations to construct a significant data center in Osaka, Japan, for the AI company Anthropic. This facility is expected to have a capacity of up to 500 MW, positioning it as one of Japan's largest. The project's estimated cost is around $6.3 billion, and it is anticipated to begin partial operations by 2028. This development marks Anthropic's first dedicated data center in Japan, highlighting the country's growing importance in the global artificial intelligence landscape. The construction is being handled by NTT Data Group, a prominent player in Japan's technology infrastructure sector.

This potential deal underscores the escalating demand for dedicated AI infrastructure globally and signals Japan's strategic importance in meeting that demand. NTT Data's involvement suggests a move towards integrated, large-scale AI-specific data center development, moving beyond generic cloud services. The substantial investment indicates a long-term commitment from both Anthropic and its infrastructure partners to establish a robust AI ecosystem within Japan.

The construction of such a large-scale facility by NTT Data for a leading AI firm like Anthropic will likely accelerate the development of specialized AI hardware and talent in Japan. It may also influence regulatory discussions around AI development and data sovereignty in the region, as major players establish significant physical footprints. Other AI companies may follow suit, seeking similar dedicated infrastructure to support their advanced model training and deployment.