What is quantum technology and why is it important?

Quantum technology uses quantum physics principles for exponentially powerful computers, sensors, and communications, poised to transform sectors like medicine and finance.

Which countries are leading the quantum computing race?

The US is currently leading, but China is rapidly narrowing the gap with substantial public investment.

What are the main risks of quantum computing advancements?

A major risk is that powerful quantum computers could break current encryption standards, necessitating new post-quantum security measures.

Home / Technology / US Leads Quantum Race, China Closes Gap Fast

US Leads Quantum Race, China Closes Gap Fast

30 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Quantum tech promises exponential power beyond classical computing.
Big Tech races to develop quantum chips, facing error rate challenges.
Nations are in a geopolitical race, with China heavily investing.

US Leads Quantum Race, China Closes Gap Fast

Quantum technology, tapping into the principles of quantum physics, is poised to revolutionize industries from medicine to finance, with market value estimates reaching $250 billion by 2035. Companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon have unveiled new quantum computing chips, showcasing progress in qubit stability and error correction. IBM aims for a fault-tolerant quantum computer by 2029.

The United States currently holds a lead in this burgeoning field, but China is rapidly advancing, significantly increasing its investment in quantum computing. This development sparks a new geopolitical race, with experts warning against a repeat of past technological surprises.

Despite rapid progress, significant challenges remain in stabilizing qubits and reducing error rates. Experts estimate that widely useful quantum computers are still 15 to 30 years away. A key concern is the potential for quantum computers to break current encryption standards, with many IT security professionals anticipating this risk within the next five years.