China is challenging U.S. leadership in quantum technologies, according to a new report from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF). The report finds that China leads in quantum communication, matches the United States in quantum sensing, but falls behind in quantum computing.
The ITIF report is part of a 20-month investigation into China's performance in advanced industries and technologies. The findings will be presented at a briefing event on Capitol Hill on September 18.
"China leads at transforming proven quantum ideas into advanced products and services, but it doesn't lead in generating the most groundbreaking new concepts," said Senior Policy Manager Hodan Omaar. "That's why it leads in areas like quantum communication, where the technology is ready for application, but lags in quantum computing, where theoretical concepts exist, but the pathway to practical implementation remains unclear."
Key findings include:
- China has established itself as a global leader in quantum communication with projects like the 1,200-mile Beijing-Shanghai QKD network and the Micius satellite.
- In quantum computing, China trails the United States significantly, especially in hardware and practical system implementation.
- China surpasses the United States in both quantity and quality of research output for quantum communication. It also produces more research overall in quantum sensing while being neck-and-neck with the U.S. in research quality.
- China leads globally in domestic patents for quantum communication and has a considerable lead in patents for quantum sensing. However, the U.S. leads in patents for quantum computing.
- Public funding for China's quantum R&D exceeds $15 billion, overshadowing U.S. private funding advantages.
- China's insular strategy relies heavily on domestic resources with limited global collaboration.
- Government-led industrial hubs such as Hefei’s “Quantum Avenue” play a crucial role in China's development of its quantum industry.
- State control over Chinese firms like Alibaba and Baidu is increasing, aligning innovation with national goals.
To maintain its leadership position, ITIF recommends that the United States increase its funding for research and development to at least $675 million annually over five years. Additionally, building strong partnerships with allied nations is essential to counter China's approach.
“The United States should take immediate and decisive action to maintain its leadership in quantum technology,” said Omaar. “China has set a national goal of leading in quantum by 2035. It’s a key part of Xi Jinping’s plan to gain competitive advantage in advanced industries and technologies.”
