The consortia have been meeting informally for over a year. In April 2022, the consortia released a joint statement for World Quantum Day with the goal of finding new ways to work together to advance the greater quantum ecosystem. On January 31st, Quantum Industry Canada (QIC), Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C), Quantum Strategic Industry Alliance for Revolution (Q-STAR) and European Quantum Industry Consortium (QuIC) signed a memorandum of understanding in San Francisco, USA, to formally establish the International Council of Quantum Industry Associations. The council aims to strengthen communication and collaboration among the participating consortia on goals and approaches to the development of quantum technologies.

Emerging quantum technologies leverage fundamental properties of quantum physics to surpass the capabilities of traditional ‘classical’ systems. “Quantum technologies are expected to revolutionize the health, mobility, logistics, finance, climate science, environmental sustainability, energy and secure communications sectors,” said Taro Shimada, chair of the board for Q-STAR (Japan).

“Quantum innovation and quantum markets are emerging worldwide,” said Celia Merzbacher, executive director of QED-C (USA). “The formation of this council creates lines of communication and collaboration that will help our members in countries and regions with common values and with many economic linkages to develop supply chains, open markets, exchange talent, and support policies that benefit the emerging industry and society.”

The current participating consortia are hopeful that the council will continue to grow. Michele Mosca, chair of the board of directors for QIC (Canada) said, “We look forward to working with our counterparts around the world to continue to grow and strengthen the quantum ecosystem at an international level.”

Thierry Botter, executive director of QuIC Europe (Germany) added, “We are at the beginning of a global technological revolution. Forming the council and working together promotes equity and reciprocity in the advancement of the international quantum ecosystem. It allows our communities to discuss areas of common interests, such as international standards, intellectual property, and access to funding.”