Quantum Leap: Enhancing Collaboration in Quantum Technology between Japan and Finland

Japan and Finland Collaborate to Advance Quantum Technologies

On October 7, 2026, Japan’s Q-STAR (Quantum STrategic industry Alliance for Revolution) and Finland’s VTT (VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland) came together to sign a Memorandum of Understanding, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the development and commercialization of quantum technologies. This collaboration sets the stage for closer ties between two prominent quantum ecosystems.

The primary goal of this partnership is to foster innovation, business growth, and societal impact by facilitating information exchange and encouraging cooperation among industry players and research institutions. By leveraging the strengths of both Q-STAR and VTT, the collaboration seeks to create new avenues for technological advancement and economic development.

Through this agreement, Q-STAR, a leading industry alliance in Japan focusing on quantum technologies, joins forces with VTT, a renowned research and technology organization in Europe. VTT plays a pivotal role in BusinessQ, an industrial ecosystem within Finland’s InstituteQ quantum initiative. Together, these entities aim to strengthen the bond between the Japanese and Finnish quantum ecosystems, driving innovation and the commercialization of quantum technologies.

Unlocking the Potential of Quantum Technologies

The transformative power of quantum technologies spans across various sectors such as healthcare, finance, telecommunications, energy, and mobility. Recognizing the strategic importance and global impact of these emerging technologies, VTT and Q-STAR share a common vision of establishing a robust, globally connected quantum ecosystem that accelerates industrial utilization of quantum advancements.

Commenting on the partnership, Taro Shimada, Chairman of Q-STAR, emphasized the significance of bridging the Japanese and Finnish quantum ecosystems. He highlighted the collaborative efforts to expedite the commercialization of quantum technologies and stimulate innovation and industrial growth in both countries.

Both Finland and Japan have invested significantly in quantum science and technology, earning international recognition for their leadership in the field. While the quantum industry is in its nascent stage, exponential growth is anticipated in the coming years. Building a sustainable quantum sector necessitates not only technological progress but also the establishment of standards, regulatory frameworks, international partnerships, and access to diversified funding sources.

“The rapid evolution of quantum technologies underscores the imperative of global collaboration to translate scientific breakthroughs into tangible industrial and societal benefits,” stated Kalle Härkki, President and CEO of VTT. He expressed VTT’s delight in strengthening ties with the Japanese quantum ecosystem through the partnership with Q-STAR.

Looking ahead, Q-STAR and VTT plan to unite companies, researchers, investors, and public-sector leaders through collaborative initiatives that spur cooperation and innovation. The door is open for other ecosystem partners to join forces in bolstering international collaboration in the realm of quantum technologies.