Canada’s Role In Advancing Quantum Technologies In The G7

Overview

The joint statement on quantum technologies recognizes the need for broader collaboration and cooperation to achieve its potential social and economic benefits while mitigating security risks and implications.

The participants committed to:

Promote public and private investment in quantum science and technology R&D, responsible innovation and commercialization; and support partnerships between researchers, industry and other stakeholders to accelerate commercialization and attract private investment.
Promote the development and adoption of beneficial applications of quantum technologies in a variety of sectors, including those developed by small and medium sized enterprises.
Support opportunities for all stakeholders to meaningfully participate as creators, stakeholders, leaders and decision-makers at all stages of the research, development and implementation of quantum technologies.
Support initiatives, exchange best practices and promote workforce development policies for all, including women as well as communities left behind by globalization, to equip individuals with the skills needed for new jobs in the quantum sector. These include apprenticeships; science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and computer science education; and mentorship.
Support an open and fair market environment and trusted ecosystem among like-minded partners through measures such as international exchanges between academia and industry, preventing the leakage of sensitive technologies, protecting intellectual property rights, and promoting greater interoperability.
Promote trust in quantum technologies through public and international dialogues, based on scientific expertise and aligned with democratic values, freedom and fundamental rights, recognizing that, at this early stage of innovation, a global regulatory framework is not yet appropriate.
Increase understanding of risks associated with quantum technologies across different sectors; secure quantum supply chains; ensure the security and integrity of research; and promote the timely adoption of quantum-resilient security measures and solutions for protecting data and communications networks.
Intensify collaboration between trusted national measurement institutes, including via the NMI-Q initiative, to drive forward essential measurement and testing work amongst likeminded partners.
Collaborate through a G7 Joint Working Group on Quantum Technologies, with industry, experts and academia to inform cooperation on research, development and commercialization including through voluntary joint calls for projects between different members; advance policy dialogues on approaches to innovation and adoption; and assess the potential societal impacts of these technologies as they progress towards commercial and defense applications.

Quantum Technologies in Canada

In 2023, the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada released the National Quantum Strategy roadmap to support research, talent and commercialization. The aims and objectives of this document seem to have guided the joint statement on quantum technologies signed by the leaders of the G7 nations.

At the G7 Summit’s conclusion, Prime Minister Carney announced the “Collaboration on quantum research, development, and commercialization” initiative to promote Canadian technology sector. This initiative will receive $22.5 million in funding over the course of three years.

Canadian capabilities in quantum computing and artificial intelligence have been booming in recent years. Canada is home to institutions pioneering in this realm, such as Centre de Collaboration MiQro Innovation (C2MI), Sherbrooke’s Institut Quantique, and the Institute of Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo. Canadian companies have become prominent innovators in North America’s semiconductor industry. Canadian startups, such as Xanadu Quantum Technologies, Nord Quantique, and Photonic Inc., have made significant breakthroughs to advance commercial quantum computing.

Unlike the Artificial Intelligence industry, quantum technology is still an emerging field worldwide. Canadian investment in quantum technology has resulted in remarkable innovation and progress, positioning Canada as a prominent industry player.

Official Announcement

Joint Statement: Kananaskis Common Vision for the Future of Quantum Technologies