Holding the potential to revolutionize fields ranging from cryptography to artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics—such as superposition and entanglement—to process information in ways that classical computers simply cannot.
While the promise of quantum computing is immense, it also presents significant challenges, beckoning the question: Will the Asia Pacific be able to keep pace with its quantum computing trajectory?
Understanding the Current Landscape
In 2024, the Asia Pacific laid the foundation for a quantum revolution, with countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore making significant investments in research, development, and infrastructure. In 2025, the market is reflecting this rapid expansion, demonstrating a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38.2% during the forecast period through 2032.
The Asia Pacific has emerged as a key player in quantum computing, driven by strong governmental support and a commitment to technological innovation. Several countries in the region have made remarkable strides in developing quantum hardware, software, and applications.
China has demonstrated its dominance in quantum computing with Jiuzhang and Zuchongzhi, two quantum computers that have achieved quantum supremacy. Jiuzhang, a photonic-based system, can perform calculations in 200 seconds that would take a classical computer 2.5 billion years. Meanwhile, Zuchongzhi, based on superconducting qubits, can solve problems in 1.2 hours that would take traditional systems 8 billion years.
Singapore has positioned itself as a quantum research hub, with initiatives such as the National Quantum Computing Hub (NQCH) aiming to advance quantum capabilities and foster industry collaborations.
Read More: How Singapore’s APIs Hold the Key to Asia’s 5G Telecom Potential
Barriers to Advancement
The most pressing concern is quantum computing’s ability to break widely used encryption methods like RSA (Rivest–Shamir–Adleman) and ECC (Elliptic-Curve Cryptography), which rely on the difficulty of factoring large numbers. A sufficiently advanced quantum computer could crack these encryptions in minutes, compromising the security of banking transactions, sensitive government data, and personal communications.
Cybercriminals are already anticipating the rise of quantum computing and may be storing encrypted data today with the intention of decrypting it once quantum technology matures—a phenomenon known as "harvest now, decrypt later." This looming threat has prompted IT leaders to advocate for quantum-resistant encryption methods.
However, quantum computing is not just a threat to cybersecurity; it is also a solution. Researchers are developing quantum-secure cryptographic techniques, such as lattice-based and multivariate cryptography, that are resistant to quantum attacks. Additionally, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) offers a secure method for transmitting encryption keys using quantum mechanics, making eavesdropping virtually impossible.
Singapore has taken proactive steps, with IBM and the National Computer Systems (NCS) signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to co-develop quantum-safe solutions for enterprises and public agencies.
Despite rapid advancements, the quantum computing industry faces a significant skills gap. As the technology evolves, there is an urgent need for trained professionals in quantum programming, cryptography, and hardware development. To address this challenge, universities and tech companies are investing in education and training initiatives.
IBM has played a pivotal role in quantum education, helping train over 8 million quantum learners worldwide. Meanwhile, academic institutions such as Keio University, the University of Tokyo, Seoul National University, and the University of Chicago have launched a 10-year collaboration to prepare 40,000 students in Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. for quantum careers.
Others are utilizing a spreadsheet-based approach to help users define problems and select a solver—quantum or classical—without needing quantum expertise. Quantastica’s Quantum Algorithm Generator converts classical functions into quantum circuits, lowering the entry barrier while still requiring some quantum knowledge. Additionally, hardware-agnostic solutions are emerging to facilitate cross-platform development, though they still require a solid understanding of quantum computing.
Quantum Computing Pioneers of 2025
The Asia Pacific is continuing its rapid advancements in quantum computing, driven by pioneering companies and strategic initiatives. Notably, SoftBank and Quantinuum have partnered to accelerate quantum computing adoption in business applications.
Given the rise of AI workloads and increasing energy demands, quantum computing presents a sustainable alternative. As Dr. Bilel Jamoussi, Deputy Director of the Telecommunication Standardization Bureau (TSB), International Telecommunications Union (ITU), explained in an exclusive interview with Telecom Review:
While traditional computers are power-hungry, quantum computers can be more energy-efficient.
With cybersecurity threats evolving, Singtel is pioneering quantum-safe networks and encryption solutions. The company recently launched Southeast Asia’s first quantum-safe network, conducting enterprise trials to assess real-world applications. Additionally, Singtel has partnered with Cisco, Fortinet, and Nokia to deploy quantum security solutions.
In the telecommunications sector, NTT DOCOMO and D-Wave Quantum achieved a 15% reduction in mobile network congestion using quantum optimization. As 5G and future 6G networks roll out across the Asia Pacific, quantum computing’s role in network optimization will become even more critical.
The Asia Pacific’s governments are also taking decisive steps to strengthen their quantum capabilities. India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is actively funding research and development (R&D) projects to advance quantum communication networks. Meanwhile, Singapore has committed to a National Quantum Strategy.
The Answer? Yes, the Asia Pacific Will Continue Its Advancement
Quantum computing expert, Dr. Steve Brierley, emphasized the industry's alignment with Quantum Error Correction (QEC) to achieve useful scale and unlock transformative applications. He noted that almost two-thirds of quantum hardware companies are actively implementing or prioritizing QEC, reflecting a global consensus on its importance.
Similarly, Marcus Doherty, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Quantum Brilliance, highlighted the potential of diamond-based quantum systems. He predicts that in 2025, diamond technology will become a significant part of industry conversations, offering room-temperature quantum computing without the need for large mainframes or complex cooling systems.
Japan is preparing for quantum technology deployment across major industry sectors, aiming to serve 10 million consumers by 2030. This initiative is expected to lead to the development of more powerful quantum hardware and foster the creation of new quantum software and services.
The Asia Pacific's leadership in quantum computing is being driven by a combination of strong government backing, significant private sector investment, and robust academic research. As global competition intensifies, the region faces the challenge of sustaining its momentum amid rapid technological advancements, geopolitical tensions, and talent shortages.
Continued progress will depend on strategic partnerships, increased funding for quantum initiatives, and a focus on quantum-safe cybersecurity solutions. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether the Asia Pacific can maintain its trajectory and remain a key player in shaping the future of quantum computing.
Read More:
The Rise of High Performance Computing in Asia
Using Quantum Networks to Improve Digital Communication in Southeast Asia
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