China has integrated quantum technologies into its development strategy for digital and cyber sectors for the period of 2026 to 2030. Concurrently, Sweden has introduced its inaugural national quantum strategy, which sets goals extending to 2036. Both nations view this field not only as an area for research but also as pivotal for industrial growth and national security.
The Chinese initiative focuses on the advancement of companies in information technology, cybersecurity, and digitalization, encompassing seven key areas and 21 measures.
A major priority is the development of essential technologies. Companies are encouraged to enhance fundamental research and to innovate in high-performance chips, foundational and industrial software, networking technologies, cybersecurity, and data protection.
The authorities have identified promising areas where they aim to achieve technological breakthroughs, including:
- quantum technologies;
- blockchain;
- brain-computer interfaces;
- digital twins;
- next-generation displays.
In the document, quantum technologies are not categorized into computing, communication, or sensors, nor have specific budgets, technical benchmarks, or commercialization timelines been established.
The plan emphasizes transitioning research developments into marketable products. China intends to support large companies that can foster technological ecosystems, industry leaders, and rapidly growing innovative enterprises.
A dynamic database will be created for promising market participants, and investment organizations, legal, and consulting firms will be included in the support mechanism.
"It is essential to strengthen research in key foundational technologies [...] and to achieve breakthroughs in advanced areas such as quantum technologies, blockchain, brain-computer interfaces, digital twins, and next-generation displays," the plan states.
By 2030, Chinese authorities expect to significantly enhance the technological and international competitiveness of digital sector companies.
Sweden Prepares for Quantum Threats
Sweden has taken a step further by adopting its first national strategy specifically focused on quantum technologies. This document addresses quantum computing, modeling, communication, and sensors, aiming to unify existing research programs and companies into a cohesive national ecosystem.
Five primary areas have been identified by the authorities:
- research, innovation, and industrial leadership;
- training specialists;
- coordination between the state, science, and business;
- scientific and cybersecurity;
- international cooperation.
Education and Research Minister Lotta Edholm remarked that a strong research foundation alone is inadequate to realize the technology's potential.
"Sweden currently holds strong positions in quantum technologies, but fully realizing the potential requires, among other things, closer ties between research and business, strengthening the workforce, and active participation in international cooperation," she stated.
According to The Quantum Insider, the strategy's objectives extend to 2036. However, no separate new budget has been allocated for it; funding will rely on existing research programs and future support measures.
One of the challenges identified by the government is the gap between university research, industry, and investors. Attracting capital for small quantum and deep-tech companies, which require substantial resources to transition from lab developments to production, is particularly difficult.
Cybersecurity plays a critical role in the Swedish strategy. The government warned that sufficiently powerful quantum computers could pose threats to some current cryptographic algorithms in the future.
While such systems do not exist yet, transitioning to quantum-resistant methods will take time, prompting authorities to prepare the infrastructure in advance.
The strategy envisions developing competencies in both classical and quantum-resistant cryptography. Additionally, sensitive technologies must consider information security, export controls, and research protection requirements.
It is noteworthy that in August, it was announced that China has established a national committee for the standardization of quantum information, which will focus on regulations for foundational technologies, quantum computing, communication, and high-precision measurements.
Previously, authors from IBM's report urged governments not to limit quantum strategies to computing alone, but also to foster developments in communication, sensors, post-quantum cryptography, workforce, and supply chains.