TikTok is moving ahead with a third data center in Europe to give more reassurance to regulators concerned about user data privacy though admittedly Finland’s lower temperatures does make the location suitable for data center development because of lower costs when it comes to cooling. In response to security concerns, the company launched “Project Clover” in 2023 — a €12 billion, 10-year investment aimed at strengthening data protection and satisfying regulators on both sides of the Atlantic. The company though has not confined itself to the western hemisphere but has extended itself to South America where In Brazil TitTok is also building a 300MW data center at a cost of US$8.7billion.
Kouvola Data Center: A Strategic Move
TikTok’s new data center in Kouvola, Finland — developed in partnership with local firm Hyperco — is designed to expand capacity for storing EU user data locally rather than transferring it abroad. This investment also signals TikTok’s intent to integrate further with European economies and policymakers.
Economic Impact on Kouvola
The €1 billion TikTok data center project will significantly benefit the regional economy. Over 1,000 people are expected to be employed during peak construction, with around 200 permanent roles once operations begin. Kouvola’s Mayor, Marita Toikka, emphasized that the center would not only generate jobs and tax revenue but also foster a vibrant digital ecosystem connecting local companies, research, and education.
Strengthening European Data Security
Once operational, the Kouvola facility will join TikTok’s European data enclave under Project Clover. This enclave enforces strict access controls to ensure sensitive user data stays within Europe, with oversight by global cybersecurity leader NCC Group. The systems are designed to exceed regulatory standards and safeguard the privacy of TikTok’s 200 million EU users.
Finland’s Role in Digital Infrastructure
Finland’s advanced digital infrastructure, clean energy, and skilled technology workforce make it an ideal location for secure data operations. A symbolic cornerstone ceremony in Kouvola marked the start of construction, attended by national and regional leaders. A time capsule — containing a newspaper, blueprints, and a mobile phone — was placed under the cornerstone, highlighting Finland’s role in digital innovation.
Project Clover at a Glance
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Independent oversight by NCC Group to verify data controls and report anomalies.
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Default storage of European user data within TikTok’s dedicated European data enclave.
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Strict access controls preventing employees in China from accessing restricted European data.
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Privacy-enhancing technologies to de-identify global data flows.
With this latest investment, TikTok aims to secure its European operations and strengthen user trust, even as it faces regulatory challenges in other markets such as the U.S.
