Singapore and Japan have solidified a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at accelerating the development of fault-tolerant quantum computing systems. This strategic partnership, marked by a memorandum of cooperation, signifies a shared commitment to advancing quantum science and technology, fostering innovation, and establishing robust commercial applications in this transformative field.
A New Era of Quantum Collaboration
The memorandum of cooperation (MOC) between Singapore and Japan establishes a comprehensive framework for advancing quantum science, technology, and innovation. This landmark agreement is the first of its kind for Singapore at the government-to-government level, specifically targeting the burgeoning quantum sector. It aims to transition quantum computing from theoretical research to a commercially viable infrastructure capable of revolutionizing industries such as finance and pharmaceuticals.
The collaboration spans eight critical areas, including dialogues on quantum research, facilitating interactions between academia and the private sector, and promoting education and talent exchange. For the enterprise sector, the agreement emphasizes the development of standards, governance, and commercial use cases. Both nations plan to share access to research infrastructure and launch cross-border pilot projects and testbeds.
Synergies Between Two Tech Powerhouses
This partnership unites two of Asia’s most advanced technology ecosystems, both of which have made significant investments in quantum roadmaps. Singapore has been cultivating its reputation as a global node for quantum research through its National Quantum Strategy and the National Quantum Office. Its focus has largely been on quantum communications and security, exemplified by initiatives like the National Quantum Safe Network.
Japan, on the other hand, is a recognized leader in high-performance computing hardware. Its “Vision of Quantum Future Society” strategy aims to unlock growth opportunities and address global challenges through quantum technologies. Japan has made substantial advancements in superconducting quantum computers, with institutions like Riken developing powerful systems, and plans for a 1,000-qubit quantum computer are underway.
Private Sector Momentum
The government-level agreement has already catalyzed private sector engagement. Singapore-based quantum software startup Entropica Labs and Japanese startup Yaqumo, which is developing a neutral-atom-based quantum computer, are set to collaborate. This partnership will merge Japan’s hardware manufacturing prowess with Singapore’s growing expertise in quantum software and algorithms, aiming to accelerate the development of quantum computing hardware and software.
Quantinuum Partnership Enhances Singapore’s Quantum Hub Ambitions
In parallel, Singapore’s National Quantum Office (NQO) has forged a strategic partnership with Quantinuum, a leading quantum computing company. This collaboration is set to position Singapore as a premier global hub for quantum computing. Quantinuum will bring its state-of-the-art Helios quantum computer to Singapore in 2026 and establish a Research & Development and Operations Centre.
This initiative will provide researchers with direct access to Quantinuum’s advanced quantum computing capabilities, fostering deeper collaboration and innovation. The R&D Centre will unify Quantinuum staff with local researchers and industry partners to co-develop middleware and applications, accelerating the translation of quantum technologies into commercially relevant solutions and building long-term R&D capabilities.
The partnership aims to strengthen Singapore’s quantum ecosystem through industry programs and talent development, targeting areas such as computational biology, drug discovery, financial modeling, and advanced materials. This strategic move underscores Singapore’s commitment to advancing quantum computing and solidifying its role in the global quantum landscape.