UK, Japan Companies Partner to Advance Quantum

Jij Inc., a Japanese company specializing in mathematical optimization and quantum technology, and U.K. quantum computing company Orca Computing have formed a strategic partnership to develop quantum applications for various industries.

This collaboration aims to leverage Orca’s photonic quantum computers and Jij's advanced algorithms to tackle complex optimization problems in logistics, energy and manufacturing, areas where traditional computing struggles.

Jij plans to use this collaboration to expand its global reach, including by establishing a U.K. subsidiary in 2025, encouraging broader collaboration between researchers, industry leaders and policymakers from both nations.

The partnership is supported by growing international cooperation between Japan and the U.K. in quantum technology, highlighted in The Hiroshima Accord, which emphasizes joint efforts in emerging technologies like quantum.

Further strengthening the collaborative landscape is the establishment of an "Economic 2+2" initiative between the two nations, which includes provisions for quantum collaboration.

Additionally, the International Electrotechnical Commission/International Organization for Standardization (IEC/ISO) established JTC3, an international standards committee specialized in quantum technology, in January 2024.

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Jij chief operating officer Hiroshi Nakata attended the JTC3 meeting held in Edinburgh, U.K. in October 2024 representing Japan's quantum industry consortium, Quantum Strategic Industry Alliance for Revolution (Q-STAR).

"We have been in discussions with Orca Computing since 2023 and today's announcement is built on the trust relationship that the staff of Orca Computing and Jij have cultivated over time,” said Nakata.

“With this strong trust relationship as our foundation, we will focus not only on collaboration between our two companies but also on leading an ecosystem that involves companies, research institutes and government agencies between Japan and the U.K.”

The U.K. Department for Business and Trade actively promotes collaboration with APAC quantum companies, including those from Japan, through initiatives like the APAC U.K. Quantum Program and the annual U.K. National Quantum Technologies Showcase.

Integrating quantum hardware and software through agreements such as this is seen as key to near-future practical quantum applications using a quantum-classical architecture.

“The partnership with Jij represents a significant step toward the adoption of quantum computing in industry,” said Orca COO Per Nyberg.

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“We are confident that combining Jij’s extensive technological capabilities with enterprise applications with our PT-2 photonic system will accelerate the development of quantum solutions that bring real value to key industrial sectors in the near term.”