AI is multiplying the demand for data centers; Brazil

Concentration of digital infrastructure threatens the stability of the Brazilian internet.

The explosion of investments in artificial intelligence is multiplying the demand for data centers in Brazil, but the geographic concentration of this critical infrastructure exposes the country to a growing risk: a possible cyber blackout without a plan B.

According to an analysis released this week, global investments in data center hardware jumped from US$30 billion in 2016 to a projected US$530 billion in 2026. In Brazil, this trend is intensifying with the accelerated adoption of AI tools, but without the proper geographical distribution of installations.

The problem of lack of redundancy

The central issue is simple: when everything is concentrated in a single location, any technical failure, cyberattack, or even a natural disaster can bring down the entire infrastructure. Unlike road systems or power transmission lines, which have alternative routes, Brazilian data centers lack adequate redundancy.

Experts warn that AI has dramatically increased the need for computing power. Applications like Spotify, YouTube, and cloud services depend on this infrastructure to function. Without contingency plans, a sudden outage would affect millions of users simultaneously.

Evolving regulatory context

While digital infrastructure faces structural challenges, Brazil is also making progress in regulations. In 2026, the country will raise the recommended ages for using social media and artificial intelligence, setting the age for messaging apps at 12, social media at 16, and AI chatbots at 14. This measure, part of the Digital Child and Adolescent Statute (ECA Digital), transfers responsibility for age verification to platforms and app stores.

Innovation as a response

Meanwhile, Brazil is strengthening its position in agricultural technology. Nine Brazilian companies are participating in Agritechnica 2025, the largest agricultural technology fair in Europe, presenting solutions such as the SaveFarm® platform, which uses AI for selective spraying and reduces herbicide use by up to 95%.

The government is also investing in science and technology for sustainability. The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation announced R$ 200 million in investments and emphasizes that innovation and technology should be at the service of the environment and decarbonization.

Photo by Taylor Vick on Unsplash