March 6, 2026

Quantum Strategic Industry Alliance for Revolution (Q-STAR)

The Quantum Strategic Industry Alliance for Revolution (hereinafter, Q-STAR), the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) Global Research Center for Quantum-AI Fusion Technology Business Development (hereinafter, G-QuAT) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on March 5 to promote international collaboration in the field of quantum technology.

The three parties will jointly aim to strengthen international competitiveness by promoting collaboration with domestic and international companies, research institutions, universities, and government agencies, thereby fostering innovation, accelerating industrialization, and enhancing the ecosystem in Japan's quantum sector. To date, the three parties have advanced international collaboration and network building through initiatives such as dispatching quantum missions to Illinois, Massachusetts, and Colorado in the U.S., introducing the U.S. quantum ecosystem, and participating in international conferences abroad. This MOC signing establishes a new framework to further systematize these efforts and sustainably and strategically develop international joint research, inter-company collaboration, and talent exchange.

Prior to the signing of this MOC, the three parties jointly conducted a visit to Japan from March 2 to 5 for stakeholders in the North American quantum ecosystem. During this mission, participants visited research institutions, companies, and related facilities across Japan, deepening their understanding of Japan's quantum research and efforts toward social implementation. Active discussions were held on-site regarding potential joint research and business partnerships, leading to outcomes that will strengthen networks with North America and create future opportunities for cooperation.

<Key Initiatives by the Three Parties Under This MOC>
• Creation of international joint research and establishment of networks with overseas bases
• Hosting international events and business exchanges in the quantum technology field
• Joint implementation of support programs for Japanese companies expanding overseas
• Activities to attract promising overseas companies and research institutions to Japan
• Promotion of global talent exchange

In recent years, quantum technologies such as quantum computing, quantum sensing, and quantum communication have seen accelerated research, development, and investment globally as foundational technologies for next-generation industries. Collaboration within an international framework is essential to accelerate technological innovation, promote social implementation, and expand access to international markets.

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JETRO has supported the entry of foreign companies into Japan and the overseas expansion of Japanese companies, G-QuAT has promoted R&D in quantum-AI fusion technology, and Q-STAR has led the formation of the quantum ecosystem, primarily within the industry. Taking this MOC signing as an opportunity, the three parties will combine their strengths and jointly accelerate efforts to promote the social implementation of research outcomes and expand international business opportunities.

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