Quantum technology is poised to revolutionize computing, sensing, and communication, offering transformative benefits across industries such as healthcare, transportation, financial services, and life sciences.
To fully realize its potential, a strategic and collaborative approach is essential. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce outlines key principles to guide the development, deployment, and governance of quantum technologies, ensuring they drive innovation, bolster national security, and strengthen the economy.
Accelerating Quantum Technology Commercialization
The commercialization of quantum technologies requires robust public-private partnerships. Governments at all levels should collaborate with the private sector to deploy quantum solutions, leveraging existing programs and procurement tools to accelerate scientific discovery and scale commercial applications. Broader public policies, including efficient capital markets, a competitive tax system, and a reliable energy grid, are critical to fostering an environment conducive to quantum innovation.
Securing Against Quantum-Enabled Cyberattacks
Quantum computing’s ability to render current encryption methods obsolete poses a significant cybersecurity challenge. To address this, the federal government must promote the adoption of quantum-resistant encryption algorithms, accelerate the migration of IT systems, and incentivize early adoption. Partnerships with the private sector and academia are vital to developing and deploying post-quantum cryptographic solutions, ensuring America’s digital and critical infrastructure remains secure against emerging threats.
Promoting International Cooperation and Strategic Partnerships
Quantum innovation thrives on global collaboration. The U.S. must lead efforts to establish strategic partnerships with trusted allies, fostering research, development, and deployment while promoting interoperable governance approaches. Strengthening existing international agreements and creating a free trade zone for quantum technologies can scale systems and protect national security. Policymakers should also negotiate agreements to prevent technology leakage to countries of strategic concern, ensuring clear and appropriate rules for the quantum ecosystem.
Enabling R&D Through Public and Private Investments
Advancing quantum technologies requires sustained investment in research and development. Public and private sectors must prioritize basic and applied R&D programs, supported by sound policies that encourage industry-driven partnerships, infrastructure access, and workforce development. Threats to intellectual property protections, such as “march-in” rights under the Bayh-Dole Act, must be addressed to maintain the trust and collaboration necessary for innovation.
Pursuing a Measured Regulatory Approach
The disruptive potential of quantum technologies necessitates a thoughtful regulatory approach. Governments should prioritize industry-led, consensus-based standards through international bodies and consortia. Any necessary regulations should be risk-based, targeted, and designed to address specific harms while leveraging existing frameworks to avoid stifling innovation.
Fostering Resilient Quantum Supply Chains
The challenges faced by classical semiconductor supply chains underscore the importance of building robust and resilient supply chains for quantum technologies. Policymakers must promote domestic and allied manufacturing, attract talent and capital investment, and prioritize critical components such as minerals. A sustainable quantum ecosystem will ensure long-term national security and economic growth.
By adhering to these principles, the U.S. can lead the global quantum revolution, unlocking groundbreaking advancements while safeguarding economic and national security. The Chamber remains committed to fostering collaboration and advocating for policies that enable the full potential of quantum technologies.
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