Record Investment Announcements Expected
The Élysée expects a record number of announcements and total investment amounts. Multiple companies are set to invest in artificial intelligence and computing in France, with the Ministry of Economy highlighting five projects in various industries (fertilizers, nickel, aviation, household robots, and chemicals) and three banking projects that will create jobs in Paris.
Tech Investments
Amazon will invest over €1.2 billion in France, focusing on logistics and web infrastructure, creating over 3,000 new jobs. This includes developing Amazon Web Services’ (AWS) cloud infrastructure, particularly for generative AI, and enhancing logistics for parcel distribution. IBM will announce a €45 million investment in quantum computing with 50 new hires by 2025 at its Paris-Saclay site. A major investment from Microsoft is also anticipated.
Fertilizer Plant
The largest announced project involves the European consortium FertigHy, planning a €1.3 billion investment in a carbon-reducing fertilizer plant in Somme, using hydrogen instead of natural gas.
Nickel and Rare Earths
Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire announced a €300 million nickel refining plant in Nouvelle-Aquitaine by Swiss company KL1, creating 200 jobs. Additionally, Solvay will convert its La Rochelle plant for large-scale rare earth production, essential for electric vehicle motors.
Aviation, Thermomix, and Frozen Foods
German company Lilium will invest €400 million in a new electric aircraft plant in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, creating 850 jobs by 2026. Vorwerk will expand its Thermomix production in Châteaudun with a €72 million investment, creating 50 jobs. Canadian company McCain will invest €350 million to modernize its French factories.
Banking Investments
Morgan Stanley will establish its new European campus in Paris, adding 100 jobs. First Abu Dhabi Bank and Zenith Bank will also open offices in Paris.
Health Sector
Pfizer will invest €500 million over five years to enhance research collaborations and clinical trials in oncology and hematology, aiming to accelerate patient access to innovative therapies. AstraZeneca will invest €360 million to expand its Dunkirk site for respiratory disease treatments, creating 100 jobs.
