The United States has provided technology based on international standards, dominating the foundation of the internet through RSA encryption and securing its global hegemony. However, even RSA encryption is expected to be broken within the next decade.

Meanwhile, China is executing a national strategy for post-quantum cryptography, and the U.S. is leading standardization projects for government agencies.

Japan, on the other hand, has a relatively small national budget for quantum technology, and private investment remains limited. Given the current situation, rather than aiming for market dominance, it seems more realistic for Japan to secure an important position in hardware components and specialized technologies.

As I discussed this with someone in the quantum computing industry, I felt a surge of excitement about the technology, yet I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of sadness about Japan’s position in the shadows.