Japan–UK Quantum Technology Collaboration:
Strengthening Cooperation in Standardization, Talent, and Testbeds through Joint Meetings under the Memorandum of Cooperation

November 7, 2025
Cabinet Office, Government of Japan
Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy

１．Overview

On November 6, 2025, the Cabinet Office, Government of Japan, and the Embassy of Japan in the UK co-hosted a series of events at the Embassy: an academic-focused quantum technology meeting, a government–industry–academia workshop, and a reception with expanded participation.

In April, Japan and the UK signed the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) on Quantum Science and Technology. In addition to the government-level MoC, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the industry associations Q-STAR and UKQuantum that same month. In November, MoUs were signed between research institutes G-QuAT and NQCC, and G-QuAT and NPL, establishing a comprehensive framework for collaboration among government, industry, and academia.

For the first time, representatives from government, industry, and academia from both countries convened to confirm the future direction of Japan–UK collaboration in quantum technologies, based on the signed MoC and MoUs.

1.Academic Meeting
　Researchers from universities and research institutes discussed the latest trends, technical challenges, and future directions for collaboration in quantum sensing and quantum-enabled position, navigation, and timing (PNT). The insights and pillars identified here formed the foundation for subsequent workshop discussions.

2.Government–Industry–Academia Workshop
　Key representatives from government, industry, and academia met to discuss concrete cooperation policies and actions in three strategic areas—standardization, talent, and testbeds—based on the signed MoC and MoUs. The workshop also deepened mutual understanding among stakeholders and clarified the overall collaboration framework and roles.


3.Reception
　Following the workshop, a reception was held with approximately 90 participants from government, industry, and academia, providing a platform for diverse stakeholders to network and further strengthen the foundation for future joint projects and international collaboration.

  • Scene from the reception
  • Scene from the reception

２．Key Outcomes

Advancing International Standardization Cooperation
Japan and the UK reaffirmed their commitment to further promoting cooperation in quantum technology standardization, leveraging international frameworks such as NMI-Q and IEC/ISO JTC 3. Both sides agreed to identify priority areas for joint work and accelerate contributions to global standards.

Collaboration in Skills and Talent
Skills and talent development was recognized as a shared challenge, and both countries agreed to strengthen collaboration in quantum workforce development through the exchange of program lists, relevant information, and opportunities for mutual learning.

Mutual Utilization of Testbeds and Promotion of Industrial Applications
Japan’s AIST G-QuAT and the UK’s NQCC, among other quantum technology testbeds, will be utilized for joint evaluation, benchmarking, data sharing, and supply chain assessment. Both sides confirmed their intention to promote industrial implementation.

Expansion and Clarification of Stakeholder Collaboration Framework
Representatives from government, industry, and academia deepened mutual understanding and clarified the overall collaboration framework and roles.

Expansion of Government–Industry–Academia Networks and Trust
Through the academic meeting, workshop, and reception, a broad network of stakeholders was formed, strengthening the foundation for future joint projects and international cooperation.

３．Related Memoranda

For details on the memoranda signed in connection with this collaboration, please refer to the following links:

４．Contact

Cabinet Office, Government of Japan
Secretariat for Science, Technology and Innovation Promotion
Quantum & Materials Group (N. Kono, H. Shiraki, S. Arai)
Tel: +81-3-6257-1153 (direct)

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