The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has inked a new agreement with quantum computing hardware company IQM Quantum Computers to accelerate the industrialisation of quantum technology.
The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) will partner with IQM on quantum hardware development, algorithm optimisation, error mitigation and quantum machine learnings.
The end goal of the partnership is to deliver full-stack quantum computers and advance the practical application of the technology across various industries.
Japan’s quantum ambitions
The Japanese Government has committed to developing a quantum encryption technology by 2030, engaging with companies like Toshiba and IBM (NYSE:IBM) to collaboratively advance quantum research.
In May last year, the University of Tokyo, University of Chicago and IBM entered into a US$100 million partnership to advance technological innovation toward the development of a 100,000-qubit quantum-centric supercomputer.
“Now that quantum computers are here and can actually be used, researchers and students have become more inclined to develop ever more useful applications for them,” says Murao Mio, a professor specialising in quantum information theory at the University of Tokyo.
“In that sense, I believe that our partnership has had a significant impact on quantum research in Japan.”
The most recent collaboration with IQM will seek to leverage the strengths of AIST's research expertise and IQM's world-class technological capabilities with the goal of actively industrialising quantum computing technology.
“Our partnership with AIST represents a significant step to move forward with quantum technology in Japan with our unique technical expertise,” said Mikko Välimäki, co-CEO of IQM Quantum Computers.
“This MoU also enhances our commitment to driving scientific excellence and nurturing talent, and our development roadmap and commercial initiatives are aligned with Japan’s 10-year quantum plan, and together with AIST, we are committed to supporting the country in achieving the plan.”