Signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation between Japan and Singapore on Quantum Science and Technology

January 9, 2026
Cabinet Office, Government of Japan
Office for Science, Technology and Innovation

1.Overview

On January 9, 2026, Ms. Kimiko Onoda, Minister of State for Science and Technology Policy of the Cabinet Office of Japan, and Ms. Josephine Teo, Minister for Communications and Information of Singapore, signed the “Memorandum of Cooperation between Japan and Singapore on Quantum Science and Technology.”

how to sign

2.Background and Purpose

Japan and Singapore are both actively advancing research, development, and social implementation of quantum science and technology. In recent years, policies and collaborative relationships in the quantum field between the two countries have made significant progress.

Singapore is promoting quantum technology research and industrialization at the national level, serving as a key hub in Asia. In Japan, based on the “Quantum Ecosystem Development Policy” announced in May last year, efforts are underway to promote research, development, and social implementation. This year, further growth strategies are being considered within the Japan Growth Strategy Council.

This Memorandum builds upon the “Japan-Singapore Economic Partnership Agreement” signed in 2002, and aims to further advance bilateral cooperation in the field of quantum technology. By leveraging the strengths of both countries, the Memorandum promotes collaboration across a wide range of areas—from fundamental research to applications, industrialization, human resource development, and standardization—contributing to the development of the international quantum ecosystem.

how to sign

3.Key Areas of Cooperation

Dialogue on Quantum Research and Innovation
Facilitating collaboration and sharing of best practices among research institutions and hubs, from fundamental to applied research, and exploring opportunities for joint research.

Academic-Private Sector Interactions
Promoting cooperation between academia and the private sector through delegation exchanges and other initiatives.

Education, Exchange, Talent, and Skills
Considering educational initiatives and opportunities for exchange among researchers and skilled professionals.

Security Policy Dialogue
Discussing the impact of quantum technologies on social, national, and economic security.

Standards and Governance
Promoting discussions on safety, governance, standardization, investment screening, and resilience in quantum technologies.

Infrastructure, Test Facilities, and Missions
Utilizing research infrastructure and test facilities for advanced materials, use case development, technology demonstration, validation, and maturation.

Commercialization, Use Cases, and Scale-Up
Promoting commercialization and the creation of use cases for quantum technologies, and disseminating demonstration projects.

Private Funding, Industrial Consortia, and Institutional Investorst
Facilitating increased investment in the quantum sector through institutional investors and industrial consortia, and leveraging related platforms.

4.Full Text of the Memorandum

5.Contact

Cabinet Office, Government of Japan
Office for Science, Technology and Innovation
Quantum & Materials Division
Tel: +81-3-6257-1153