Expereo: AI, data rules, and China Plus One reshape APAC's 2026 priorities

Global firms moving into Vietnam, Malaysia, and India under the China Plus One strategy will push APAC toward new network builds in 2026.

Regional shifts in supply chains and data rules are reshaping how companies plan their networks across Asia Pacific. Instead of simply expanding into new markets, many are rethinking their digital foundations to keep pace with rising regulatory demands and the growing pressure to show real returns from AI.

This shift is closely tied to the push for China Plus One, which has moved from a long-term strategy to a near-term requirement for multinationals. As firms enter new markets, they are discovering how uneven regulations, different data rules, and old network setups can hold back growth. Many now see stable and predictable connectivity as the core requirement for any move beyond China.

"Asia Pacific remains a global engine of growth, but the rules of engagement are changing," says Eric Wong, President of Asia Pacific, Expereo. "We are moving past the phase of experimentation. In 2026, the 'China Plus One' strategy and the demand for AI ROI will force enterprises to reckon with their infrastructure foundations. Success will no longer depend just on expansion, but on the ability to consolidate fragmented networks and navigate an increasingly complex web of local data regulations."

What will shape APAC technology decisions in 2026

The main forces behind enterprise planning next year reflect a clear turning point for CIOs who are trying to keep operations stable while entering new markets.

China Plus One sparks new network builds

More companies are moving part of their supply chains into Vietnam, Malaysia, and India to reduce exposure to geopolitical risk. This shift will create large demand for new network setups in 2026. In these newer hubs, the main goal is no longer cutting costs. Companies need stable, high-quality links to support core tasks such as chip production, where downtime can cause heavy losses.

AI pushes companies to fix their basic infrastructure

Many firms want fast returns from AI. But in practice, their plans are slowing down because they still run on old systems or have networks spread across too many local setups. In 2026, AI will become the main reason CIOs bring everything under one structure. They need a steady, observable base before AI projects can move from trial runs to broad use.

Local data rules break the idea of a single global cloud plan

More firms are shifting key apps to the cloud, but new data laws are forcing them to rethink where their systems sit. India's DPDPA and Vietnam's PDPL, which will be fully enforced on January 1, 2026, are two major examples. These rules are pushing companies to keep some systems inside the country, even if that means splitting up global cloud plans to stay compliant.

What companies need to stay steady during these changes

The region's growing patchwork of rules and network limits means companies must rebuild their foundation, especially as they enter new China Plus One markets.

Stronger multi-layer connectivity in new hubs

Physical cables in places like Vietnam can be unreliable, so companies need more than one type of connection. A mix of fiber, 5G, and satellite links can help keep factories online and protect revenue.

Network consolidation for AI success

AI projects depend on a network that can be observed and controlled. Companies with scattered local networks will struggle. Unifying these systems will be essential before scaling AI.

Support for local compliance

Breaking data rules now directly affects whether a company can operate in a market. Firms entering new China Plus One hubs must work with partners who understand local laws well enough to guide long-term plans without putting operations at risk.

"Connectivity in 2026 is about resilience in the face of fragmentation," adds Eric. "We have reached a tipping point where compliance now dictates architecture. A business can no longer prioritize the features of the cloud; they must prioritize the location of the infrastructure to avoid breaking the law and losing market access. In 2026, enterprises won't be asking 'which cloud', they will be asking 'which country'."