UK and Japan Strengthen Quantum Ties with Industry Agreement
Written by Rebecca Uffindell Tue 29 Apr 2025
The Quantum STrategic industry Alliance for Revolution (Q-STAR) and UKQuantum have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance cooperation between the quantum technology sectors in the UK and Japan.
The agreement complements a broader government-level Memorandum of Cooperation on quantum science and technology between the Cabinet Office of Japan and the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and aims to formalise industry-level collaboration between the two countries.
Jonathan Legh-Smith, Executive Director of UKQuantum, described the agreement as “a step towards deepening international cooperation.”
“The UK and Japan are at the forefront of quantum technology innovation… ensuring that our quantum industries remain competitive and globally connected,” he added.
Q-STAR and UKQuantum are the leading industry associations for quantum technologies in their respective countries. Under the new MoU, the organisations will work to accelerate the commercial development and global adoption of quantum technologies.
They have identified several key areas of strategic collaboration:
Industry and Research Exchange
The organisations will promote deeper engagement between quantum-focused stakeholders in the UK and Japan. This includes encouraging collaboration among start-ups, large enterprises, investors, academic institutions and technology accelerators. Initiatives may include joint delegations, research visits, cross-border investment discussions and collaborative development projects, enabling both countries to share talent, best practice and technological expertise.
Policy and Advocacy Alignment
Q-STAR and UKQuantum will coordinate efforts to support policy development that fosters the growth of the quantum ecosystem. This includes aligning positions on public funding, regulatory frameworks, intellectual property rights and the ethical development of quantum technologies, with the aim of creating a more consistent and supportive environment for innovation.
International Collaboration
Both organisations will work together to strengthen their role in global quantum technology forums. This will include joint participation in international research and development initiatives, greater visibility of UK and Japanese contributions to the field, and efforts to shape global standards and best practice.
Joint Events and Awareness Campaigns
Q-STAR and UKQuantum will co-organise conferences, workshops and networking events to raise awareness of quantum developments and facilitate knowledge sharing. These activities will provide opportunities for companies and institutions from both countries to build relationships, showcase emerging technologies and explore new partnerships.
“This agreement with UKQuantum underscores our shared commitment to building a strong, open and collaborative quantum ecosystem. By working together, we can accelerate the development and deployment of quantum technologies for economic and societal benefit,” said Taro Shimada, Chair of the Board of Q-STAR.
The two organisations will also collaborate with government partners, including the British Embassy in Tokyo, to support ongoing bilateral engagement.
Written by Rebecca Uffindell Tue 29 Apr 2025