The founder of Origin Quantum calls for action to secure China’s quantum self reliance

Guo Guoping, the founder of Origin Quantum, emphasised the strategic importance of developing an independent quantum computing industry chain as a countermeasure to Western technological containment, as reported by the South China Morning Post (SCMP).

China is currently experiencing an era of change in the field of quantum computing, led by Guo Guoping, a deputy to the National People’s Congress and a quantum physicist. Guo, who founded Origin Quantum, has made a strong case for China’s need to strengthen its quantum computing sector in order to maintain technical independence and lessen the possibility of Western containment. In his call to action, he highlights the critical decoupling that occurs within China between research and practical applications, underscoring the urgent need for China to advance its industrial applications of quantum technology and expand its manufacturing chains.

In light of the yearly ‘two sessions’ in Beijing, Guo’s suggestion highlights the importance of quantum computing as a game-changing technology that has the ability to completely disrupt a number of industries, including data security, healthcare, and finance. China has made progress in this area, although industrialisation and technological self-sufficiency still face obstacles. Guo draws attention to the dominance of Western businesses in crucial components like quantum computers and dilution coolers, exposing a market that corporations from the US, UK, and Finland largely dominate.

Guo proposes the use of state-level support and strategic planning to close this gap, comparing it to the government’s encouragement of China’s electric vehicle industry, which helped it rise to notoriety internationally. According to his plan, financial investment will be increased and talent will be developed to support the advancement of quantum computing from research to a robust industry.

Guo’s call to action emphasises an important moment in China’s efforts to maintain its technological superiority in the face of international competition and to establish itself as a leader in the quantum revolution.