The Quantum Computer Technology Promotion Committee works for the promotion and development of quantum computers (fault-tolerant general-purpose quantum computers and noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) devices) and Ising machine technologies such as quantum annealing machines.

Looking back now, in the decades between the time that the concept of quantum computing was first proposed until the 2000s, only those in the know had heard about quantum computers. It was only in the 2010s that development in quantum computers and Ising machines led to the ability to access real quantum computers and Ising machines via the Internet to perform calculations. Now renowned global companies, as well as ambitious startups in various countries, are developing hardware and software for quantum computers and Ising machines. Moreover, governments of various countries are investing heavily in research and development in quantum technology, particularly quantum computers. Japan formulated the Quantum Technology and Innovation Strategy in 2020, the Quantum Future Society Vision in 2022, and the Quantum Future Industry Creation Strategy in 2023, in order to rapidly promote the creation of systems enabling diverse people to use quantum technologies.

However, it is believed that it will take a long time for fault-tolerant general-purpose quantum computers—the holy grail of quantum computers—to be implemented in society. That is why it is important to achieve long-term investment in research and development. Research and development of Ising machines, which are expected to be implemented in society in the short to medium term, will also be important. Continuing this research and development requires not only human resources, but also the need to involve and cultivate business people with the far-seeing perspective required to design long-standing social implementation. In order to achieve ongoing research and development into quantum computers and Ising machines, we need both quantum specialists, but also many other people with diverse backgrounds who can incorporate quantum technologies into other fields. In light of this, the Quantum Computer Technology Promotion Committee holds meetings about four times a year and carries out the following activities to promote the spread of quantum computer technology in Japan, to build an ecosystem and supply chain, and to implement quantum computer technology in society.

(1) Sharing of the latest information

The committee, which meets about four times a year, holds seminars for committee members on topics regarding the cutting-edge research and development and social implementation trials for quantum computers and Ising machines. Specific topics that have been covered so far include case studies of quantum computers and Ising machine initiatives in companies, quantum human resource development, quantum industry-academia collaboration, quantum national projects, and quantum hubs. Through seminars, we share information on the latest research and development trends and social implementation trials for quantum computers and Ising machines and promote coordination between members.

(2) Transmitting information

We promote the sound advancement of quantum computer and Ising machine technologies by experts providing unbiased information based on scientific evidence. Also, we release interviews with young researchers and engineers who are active in Japan to encourage students and young people to enter the field.

(3) Holding events

We hold industry-academia collaboration events where industry and academia come together to identify technological areas, including peripheral technologies, where we should strategically promote such collaboration in the future, and at the same time we promote matching between Forum members. We also hold basic technology seminars and hands-on sessions by experts for members to disseminate basic theories and fundamental technologies.

In addition to the above, we work on various matters brought up by members as warranting investigation by the Quantum Computer Technology Promotion Committee. And as necessary, we hold joint committee meetings and joint seminars with the Quantum Key Delivery and Quantum Metrology and Sensing Technology Promotion Committees to discuss collaboration among quantum technologies. Moreover, we will also seek collaboration with national quantum research and development projects (Q-LEAP, Moonshot, NEDO, SIP, CREST, etc.), Quantum Technology Innovation Hubs (QIH), the Quantum Strategic Industry Alliance for Revolution (Q-STAR), and quantum research and development hubs like the Quantum Innovation Initiative (QII) council. Because it is important to discover and develop diverse human resources for quantum technologies such as quantum computers, we will also seek collaboration with quantum human resource development initiatives such as the IPA MITOU Target Program, the Q-LEAP Human Resources Development Program, and the NICT Quantum Camp. I will continue to further advance the efforts of the Quantum Computer Technology Promotion Committee established by former chairperson Shiro Kawabata. Thank you for your support.