Huawei Technologies, the Chinese networking and telecommunications giant, this week announced its plans to make a massive investment in research and development in New Zealand. The company announced that it will spend NZD 400 million over the next five years to support the construction of the new data center as well as help drive local R&D.
The announcement followed a meeting between the company’s CEO, Ren Zhengfei and New Zealand’s Prime Minister Bill English where they discussed the development of ICT infrastructure and digital transformation in the country.
Huawei also announced that it will team up with local partners to build the new facility in New Zealand. In addition to the data center, Huawei also announced its plans to establish innovation labs in Christchurch and at the Victoria University in Wellington which is expected to open this year.
Ren Zhengfei, CEO, Huawei said:
New Zealand’s open and fair trade environment, and its emphasis on developing new technology, facilitates our ongoing commitment.
Digital transformation empowered by advanced ICT technology can enable New Zealand to become better connected with the world, and transform its traditional strengths into driving forces of economic growth.