Finland has granted Metsähallitus permission to sell four parcels of forestland, covering 1,400 hectares, to Google for Euro 27 million. The land will support Google’s future expansions of its cloud and data center infrastructure in Finland.
Google has operated data centers in Finland since 2011, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs during construction. Currently, Google’s Hamina campus employs 400 people full-time. The planned expansion in Muhos and Kajaani is expected to generate significant employment and boost local economic activities.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo emphasized the deal’s importance, stating that it highlights Finland’s appeal as a safe and attractive destination for investments. Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Sari Essayah noted that Metsähallitus’ expertise in managing state forestland responsibly was key to the sale. She highlighted its alignment with the Government’s economic growth programs for northern and eastern Finland.
While Google has not yet made a final investment decision, it is working with local and national stakeholders to ensure sustainable development of the sites. Google Finland’s Country Director, Antti Järvinen, described the agreement as a significant step in supporting Finland’s digital growth ambitions.
Juha S. Niemelä, Director General of Metsähallitus, called the deal an example of balancing economic, environmental, and social sustainability to drive green growth. Niemelä welcomed Google’s expansion plans, noting the anticipated benefits for employment and regional vitality.
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