IonQ Expands Quantum Collaboration in Japan, Signs Memorandum of Understanding with AIST’s Global Research and Development Center for Business by Quantum-AI Technology (G-QuAT)

IonQ announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Global Research and Development Center for Business by Quantum-AI Technology, a division of one of the largest public research organizations in Japan, the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology’s. This memorandum facilitates cooperation between IonQ and G-QuAT intended to advance quantum computing technologies in Japan. 

G-QuAT is AIST’s initiative focused on developing advanced hybrid-quantum computing technologies with artificial intelligence, and aims to advance quantum research and development, accelerate real-world use cases and build a global quantum business ecosystem. 

The intent of this MOU is for G-QuAT and IonQ to work together to facilitate G-QuAT prospectively obtaining access to IonQ Forte-class quantum computers through the IonQ Cloud that supports collaborative research, development, and innovation. This MOU reflects both companies’ shared vision to accelerate the development and adoption of quantum technologies in Japan’s research and technology industries.

“Our expanded alliance with AIST marks an important step in IonQ’s global expansion and deepens our engagement with the Japanese quantum market,” said Niccolo de Masi, President and CEO of IonQ. “We look forward to our further collaboration with G-QuAT to explore new quantum computing applications that can deliver transformative outcomes across industries.”

Today’s announcement marks the latest milestone in IonQ’s alliance with AIST, which seeks to provide access to its Forte-class quantum computers to support the advancement of quantum technologies in Japan. According to McKinsey, Japan is making substantial progress toward its quantum computing goals with over $1.8 billion in public funding already announced and multiple government-sponsored research labs commissioned as of 2024. 

“Our goal is to foster a robust, international quantum ecosystem and our collaboration with IonQ will bring us closer to achieving this,” said G-QuAT Deputy Director, Masahiro Horibe. “We’re excited to explore new R&D and application possibilities using IonQ’s Forte quantum computer, and to make quantum computing accessible to researchers, enterprises and institutions both in Japan and globally.”

Today’s announcement builds on IonQ’s global momentum, including the unveiling of its first quantum computer in Europe in partnership with QuantumBasel. IonQ aspires to contribute to the advancement of quantum technology and workforce development worldwide. This non-binding MOU shows IonQ’s ongoing focus on contributing to  the growth of Japan’s quantum economy and in the APAC region.

Source: IonQ media announcement