The Asia-Pacific region is rapidly becoming a global hub for quantum technology research and development, with countries across the area making significant strides in this cutting-edge field. A recent report by the Japan Science and Technology Agency’s Asia and Pacific Research Center (APRC) sheds light on the remarkable progress being made in quantum computing, communication, and sensing throughout the region.
Japan stands at the forefront of this quantum revolution, driven by robust government initiatives such as the “Quantum Technology and Innovation Strategy.” The country’s commitment to quantum research is evident in its impressive output of over 13,000 quantum technology papers between 1990 and 2021. Leading institutions like RIKEN, AIST, the University of Tokyo, and Osaka University are spearheading quantum research efforts, while quantum technology innovation hubs foster crucial collaboration between academia and industry.
China has emerged as a dominant force in the quantum landscape, publishing an astounding 27,000 quantum technology papers in the same period. The nation’s comprehensive national strategies, including the 14th Five-Year Plan and the Scientific and Technological Innovation Plan, have positioned China as a key player in the global quantum research arena. The APRC report highlights China’s substantial investment in quantum technologies as a critical factor in its rise to prominence.
India, with approximately 6,000 quantum technology papers published between 1990 and 2021, is making significant strides through its National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications. The country is committed to advancing both basic and applied research in this field, demonstrating its dedication to staying competitive in the quantum race.
Australia, South Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan are also making notable contributions to quantum research and development. Australia has published over 4,000 papers and is investing heavily in quantum fundamentals. South Korea, with 3,443 published papers, has set an ambitious goal of developing a 50-qubit quantum computer by 2024 as part of its Quantum Computing Technology Development Project. Singapore and Taiwan, with 2,399 and 2,116 published papers respectively, are enhancing their quantum research capabilities through government-supported programs and strategic collaborations.
The APRC report emphasizes the crucial role of international collaboration in advancing quantum technologies. Countries in the Asia-Pacific region are actively engaging in joint research initiatives, fostering a collaborative ecosystem that transcends borders. Notable examples include China’s quantum teleportation experiments with the University of Vienna, Australia’s governmental collaborations with the USA and the UK, and Singapore’s partnerships with the UK government and institutes in France and Australia.
As the quantum technology landscape continues to evolve, the Asia-Pacific region is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of this transformative field. Through strategic investments, collaborative efforts, and a growing number of key players, the region is well-positioned to lead the global quantum competition in the coming decades. The advancements being made across the Asia-Pacific in quantum computing, communication, and sensing are not only pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge but also paving the way for groundbreaking applications that could revolutionize industries and societies worldwide.
