TikTok’s data center project in Kouvola, Finland, forms part of the company’s broader effort to strengthen data protection and operational resilience across Europe. TikTok’s Kouvola data center is designed to store and process European user data locally. This is to align with EU ‘s digital security and privacy standards. The Kouvola center also complements TikTok’s existing data hubs in Ireland. Together, they highlight the social platform’s commitment to better data transparency. They also speak of the platform’s regional compliance in its data management practices. The facility is being developed under TikTok’s “Project Clover” framework in collaboration with Finnish firm Hyperco Oy. Hyperco also recently awarded YIT Corporation a construction contract for the Kouvola data center project.
TikTok Breaks Ground on Third Data Center in Europe and its partly to reassure users
Reported September 15, 2025 – TikTok is moving ahead with a third data center in Europe to give more reassurance to regulators concerned about user data privacy. In response to data security concerns, the company launched “Project Clover” in 2023. Clover is a €12 billion, 10-year investment aimed at strengthening data protection and satisfying regulators on both sides of the Atlantic. Additionally, the company has not confined itself to Europe as it is also building a 300MW data center in Brazil at a cost of US$ 8.7 billion.
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, also 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 Europe’s 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 also 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. This is to highlight 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 also aims to secure its European operations even as it faces regulatory challenges in other markets such as the US. The investment is also seen as a move to strengthen user trust on the platform.
