Japan’s Quantum Optics Blueprint: AIST, RIKEN, Fujitsu Release Second Supply Chain Roadmap

September 6, 2026

AIST Japan

Overview

Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), RIKEN, and Fujitsu have jointly published the second edition of their supply chain roadmap for large-scale optical quantum computing systems. This strategic document details essential technologies, outlines current challenges, and guides domestic companies on entry points, aiming to cultivate a stable and resilient national supply chain. The initiative seeks to bolster Japan’s global competitiveness and self-reliance in the rapidly evolving quantum computing landscape.

In Depth

Background

Quantum computing promises to revolutionize problem-solving across sectors like drug discovery, material science, and financial optimization, tackling challenges intractable for classical computers. This immense potential has ignited a global development race, with nations vigorously pursuing national strategies to secure leadership. Japan, driven by its government, is intensifying industry-academia collaboration to carve out a leading position in this competition. Strengthening domestic supply chains has become an urgent priority, not only due to increasing geopolitical risks but also to maintain technological confidentiality, fostering an ecosystem built on indigenous technologies and companies.

Key Findings

The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), in collaboration with RIKEN and Fujitsu Limited, has released the second edition of its supply chain roadmap for large-scale optical quantum computing systems. This comprehensive roadmap meticulously outlines the current state of essential technologies, identifies existing technical challenges, and charts future development directions necessary for scaling optical quantum computers. Its primary aim is to provide concrete guidelines for Japanese companies seeking entry into the burgeoning quantum computing industry.

Optical quantum computers, which harness the quantum states of photons for computation, represent a next-generation computing paradigm poised to deliver ultra-high-speed capabilities. Achieving scalable optical quantum systems demands a sophisticated array of cutting-edge component technologies. These include ultra-low-loss optical circuits, high-efficiency single-photon sources, high-precision photon detectors, and advanced packaging techniques crucial for integrating these diverse elements. The roadmap undertakes a detailed analysis of these component technologies, offering a comparative assessment of development statuses and technical levels across various countries. It specifically highlights strategic areas where Japan can leverage its renowned strengths in semiconductor manufacturing and precision optical technologies to establish international competitiveness in quantum computing applications, underscoring the vital need for standardization.

This newly released roadmap serves as a critical compass, empowering domestic companies to identify lucrative business opportunities in optical quantum computing and accelerate their research and development investments. This collaborative initiative, spearheaded by AIST, RIKEN, and Fujitsu, represents a significant strategic step for Japan. It aims to enhance the nation’s international presence in quantum computing and ensure self-reliance in the fundamental technologies that will underpin future digital societies. The diligent execution of concrete action plans derived from this roadmap is anticipated to revitalize Japan’s quantum computing industry, fortify its global competitiveness, and firmly position the nation at the forefront of the quantum era.

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