The City of Kitakyushu has announced enhanced incentives to attract data center (DC) investment as demand continues to grow with the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). Under the new program, operators will receive exemptions from fixed asset tax for up to three years on both newly developed land and newly constructed facilities. Tax incentives beginning from the land development stage are the first of their kind in Japan. Mayor Kazuhisa Takeuchi said the city offers the key resources required for data center investment, including land, water, electricity, and skilled human resources. Over the next three years, Kitakyushu aims to attract five data center projects, three related industry projects, and total investment commitments of ¥1 trillion.