Insider Brief
- China has made quantum computing a national priority, investing heavily through state funding, policy support, and coordinated development strategies.
- A growing ecosystem of Chinese quantum companies spans hardware, software, communications, and applications, supported by government-backed infrastructure and commercialization efforts.
- Export controls and geopolitical tensions are accelerating China’s push toward technological self-sufficiency, creating a parallel quantum ecosystem.
China has positioned quantum computing as a strategic national priority, allocating substantial government resources through its 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) and emerging 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). The Chinese government has established dedicated quantum research institutes, provided strategic funding to leading quantum companies, and created favorable regulatory environments for quantum technology development. With approximately $15 billion in government quantum funding and access to a broader $138 billion technology advancement fund introduced in 2025, China has committed unprecedented resources to achieving quantum computing leadership, reflecting the technology’s role in national security and economic competitiveness.
The Chinese quantum strategy extends beyond domestic capability building toward global market dominance. Government initiatives support quantum computing development as a core pillar of technological sovereignty and economic competitiveness. Chinese quantum companies benefit from preferential government contracts, preferential access to academic research, and coordinated development roadmaps aligned with national strategic objectives. Additionally, Chinese quantum companies are rapidly integrating quantum research with artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and financial computing applications – creating partnerships that accelerate practical deployment.
U.S. and Western export controls on advanced semiconductor and quantum computing technologies have reinforced China’s determination to achieve quantum computing self-sufficiency.
Export restrictions on quantum-relevant components and technical collaborations are driving Chinese companies toward indigenous development of quantum hardware, control electronics, and software – accelerating domestic innovation even while limiting international partnerships. This technological decoupling is reshaping the global quantum computing landscape, with China increasingly operating as a parallel quantum ecosystem rather than participating in the Western-led development paradigm.
Chinese Quantum Computing Companies
The following is a non-exhaustive selection. This landscape is broad and evolving rapidly, and the inclusion or omission of any entry should not be interpreted as a ranking or endorsement.
Baidu Quantum (Exited – Transferred to Government)
Baidu, the Chinese search and AI giant, previously invested in quantum computing but exited the sector in January 2024, transferring its quantum computing research facility and 36-qubit quantum chip to the Beijing Academy of Quantum Information Sciences (BAQIS), a government-backed institution.
While Baidu no longer operates as a private quantum company, its accumulated quantum research, intellectual property, and infrastructure have become integrated into China’s government-coordinated quantum development ecosystem. This transition exemplifies China’s shift toward state-directed quantum technology development and consolidated government control over critical quantum research infrastructure.
China Telecom Quantum
China Telecom, one of China’s three major state-owned telecommunications companies, operates quantum computing and quantum communications research initiatives integrated with its network infrastructure and cybersecurity operations. The company has deployed quantum key distribution systems across its backbone network and is exploring quantum computing applications for financial transactions and secure communications. China Telecom’s quantum programs benefit from its massive infrastructure footprint and government preferential treatment, accelerating deployment of quantum technologies at national scale.
Huawei Cloud Quantum
Huawei, the Chinese telecommunications and technology giant, operates Huawei Cloud Quantum to develop quantum computing services and integrate quantum technology with its cloud platform and cybersecurity infrastructure. Facing severe U.S. export restrictions, Huawei has substantially increased domestic quantum computing investment as part of its technological self-sufficiency strategy.
Huawei’s quantum research spans superconducting qubits, quantum algorithms, and quantum applications relevant to 5G/6G communications, positioning quantum as a critical component of next-generation telecommunications.
National Laboratory for Quantum Information Sciences
China’s National Laboratory for Quantum Information Sciences, with substantial government funding of approximately $10 billion dedicated to quantum information research, represents the nation’s commitment to achieving quantum computing excellence. The laboratory coordinates research across multiple institutions and companies, aligning efforts toward strategic national objectives. This coordinated, government-backed research infrastructure differentiates China’s approach from Western quantum development models, ensuring rapid technology advancement through integrated national programs.
Origin Quantum
Origin Quantum stands as one of China’s most advanced independent quantum computing companies, developing superconducting quantum computers and comprehensive quantum software ecosystems. In February 2026, Origin Quantum released Origin Pilot, described as the world’s first publicly downloadable quantum computer operating system, making advanced quantum software accessible globally. The company’s Origin Wukong series represents third-generation superconducting quantum computers built on 72-qubit chips, with 2025 achievements including the Tianji 4.0 measurement-control system supporting 500+ qubits and three confirmed commercial deployments across Chinese supercomputing centers and government agencies. Origin Quantum initiated IPO counseling in September 2025, targeting the Shanghai STAR Market at an implied valuation around $950 million; as of early 2026, the listing had not yet been completed, though positioning it to become the first quantum computing company listed on a Chinese exchange if successful.
Qasky
Qasky develops superconducting quantum processors and quantum computing cloud services targeting artificial intelligence, financial modeling, and pharmaceutical research applications within the Chinese market. The Shanghai-based startup has secured substantial venture funding and government support while focusing on near-term quantum computing applications aligned with industry needs. Qasky’s approach emphasizes practical quantum advantage in near-term devices, avoiding overambitious timelines while delivering measurable value to enterprise customers.
QuantumCTek
QuantumCTek leads China’s quantum key distribution and quantum communications security ecosystem. In January 2025, China Telecom Quantum Group became the controlling shareholder of QuantumCTek, consolidating quantum cryptography and quantum computing capabilities under a single state-owned umbrella entity with CNY 10+ billion in planned investment. This consolidation reflects strategic government priority for quantum communications infrastructure.
QuantumCTek operates the backbone supporting China’s national quantum-secure communication network, integrating satellite-downlink QKD with terrestrial backbone networks and demonstrating multi-vendor interoperability. The company has deployed quantum key distribution infrastructure across Chinese telecommunications networks and received substantial government contracts. QuantumCTek is among the top QKD players globally and is recognized in the quantum key distribution market alongside Toshiba, ID Quantique, and QuintessenceLabs.
Qudoor
Qudoor develops quantum computing software, quantum algorithms, and quantum simulation applications targeting chemical simulation, materials science, and drug discovery use cases. The Chinese startup focuses on quantum software and application layers rather than quantum hardware, positioning itself as a quantum applications enabler for enterprises. Qudoor has attracted venture investment while building partnerships with academic institutions and research organizations, developing practical quantum algorithms for real-world problems.
SpinQ
SpinQ manufactures nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) quantum computers and desktop quantum systems designed for education, research, and commercial applications at significantly lower cost than superconducting alternatives. The Shenzhen-based startup announced plans for a 100-qubit quantum computer by end of 2025, though delivery status as of early 2026 has not been independently confirmed. SpinQ has deployed 500+ desktop NMR units across 30+ countries, including universities like MIT and ETH Zurich, achieving 25% U.S. market share growth in 2025. The company’s approach democratizes quantum computing access through affordable tabletop systems, establishing SpinQ as one of only two Chinese quantum companies (alongside TuringQ) recognized in Quantum Insider’s 2025 list of 80 top quantum companies.
Tencent Quantum Lab
Tencent, China’s largest social media and gaming company, established its Quantum Lab to explore quantum computing applications in cloud services, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Though smaller in scope than Baidu’s quantum division, Tencent’s quantum initiatives integrate quantum research with its massive cloud infrastructure and user data ecosystem. Tencent’s quantum ambitions extend toward quantum-resistant cryptography as threats from future quantum computers emerge, protecting its users’ data and business-critical communications.
TuringQ
TuringQ focuses on photonic quantum computing rather than traditional superconducting approaches, representing China’s emerging photonic quantum cluster. In 2025, TuringQ and Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s Wuxi Photonic Chip Institute won the top award at the World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit for their large-scale, high-speed programmable photonic quantum processor. The company introduced quantum-inspired solutions for autonomous valet parking systems, reducing average parking search times from 19.8 to 5.5 minutes. As one of only two Chinese quantum companies recognized in Quantum Insider’s 2025 list of 80 top quantum companies globally, TuringQ’s silicon photonics route represents a distinct technical pathway from China’s established superconducting approaches, hedging development risk while exploring alternative modalities.
University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
While primarily an academic institution, USTC has commercialized quantum computing research through spinoff ventures and direct industry partnerships, particularly in photonic quantum computing and quantum teleportation applications. USTC researchers have achieved international recognition for quantum computing breakthroughs, publishing influential papers that shape the field globally. USTC’s quantum computing program bridges academic research and commercial deployment, providing the scientific foundation for Chinese quantum industry development while training the next generation of quantum engineers and scientists.
ZTE
ZTE, a major Chinese telecommunications equipment manufacturer, is exploring quantum computing and quantum communications applications integrated with its network infrastructure and cybersecurity product lines. The company has initiated quantum research programs addressing quantum-resistant cryptography and quantum-enhanced network security for telecommunications systems. ZTE’s quantum initiatives remain smaller than Huawei’s but reflect the strategic importance telecommunications companies place on quantum technologies for securing critical infrastructure.
Comparison Table – Chinese Quantum Computing Companies
| Company | Focus Area | Key Product | Notable Achievement | Founded |
| Baidu Quantum | Superconducting QC | Quantum cloud services | AI-integrated (exited 2024) | 2018 |
| China Telecom Quantum | QKD & QC | Network quantum tech | National QKD deployment | 2020 |
| Huawei Cloud Quantum | Various modalities | Quantum cloud platform | Telecommunications quantum tech | 2019 |
| National Lab QIS | Government R&D | Coordinated quantum research | $10B funding commitment | 2020s |
| Origin Quantum | Superconducting QC | Quantum OS & cloud | First Chinese quantum IPO candidate | 2017 |
| Qasky | Superconducting QC | Quantum cloud services | Financial & pharma applications | 2015 |
| QuantumCTek | Quantum cryptography | Quantum key distribution | National QKD infrastructure | 2016 |
| Qudoor | Quantum software | Algorithm libraries | Drug discovery applications | 2019 |
| SpinQ | NMR quantum computers | Desktop quantum systems | Educational quantum access | 2018 |
| Tencent Quantum Lab | Cloud quantum | Quantum applications | Cloud integration focus | 2018 |
| TuringQ | Photonic QC | Photonic quantum processor | World Internet Conference award | 2018 |
| USTC | Academic + Commercial | Photonic quantum tech | Quantum teleportation research | 1958 |
| ZTE | Quantum communications | Quantum-resistant crypto | Telecom quantum integration | 2020 |
Export Controls and Geopolitical Context
U.S. and allied nations’ export controls on advanced semiconductors and quantum computing technologies have significantly impacted Chinese quantum development strategies. Restrictions on components, equipment, and technical collaborations have forced Chinese companies toward complete domestic development of quantum hardware, control electronics, software, and manufacturing infrastructure.
While constraints slow certain technological development paths, export controls simultaneously accelerate Chinese companies’ push toward technological self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on Western supply chains.
The quantum computing sector has become a focal point of U.S.-China technological competition. U.S. government agencies have imposed export controls on quantum computing equipment, advanced semiconductors needed for quantum control electronics, and restricted collaborations between Chinese and Western quantum researchers. These restrictions are driving quantum computing toward becoming a domain of parallel rather than integrated development – with China building its own quantum ecosystem while Western nations develop theirs independently. The geopolitical implications extend beyond technology development toward national security, with quantum computing capabilities increasingly viewed as essential infrastructure.
Chinese government investment in quantum computing is explicitly justified through national security and sovereignty arguments. Leadership statements emphasize quantum computing as critical to technological independence and long-term competitiveness against Western technological dominance. This strategic framing ensures sustained government support even when commercial timelines for quantum computing applications extend longer than originally anticipated. The persistence of government backing differentiates Chinese quantum development from Western approaches where market-based venture capital dominates.
China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and Strategic Shift Toward Commercialization
China’s new 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) elevates quantum technology from supporting role to central strategic priority. The plan identifies quantum technology as the first among seven “future industries” positioned to become new economic growth engines. Key initiatives include developing fault-tolerant general-purpose quantum computers and scalable special-purpose quantum computers, constructing integrated space-ground quantum communication networks, and making breakthroughs in quantum precision measurement. Notably, the 15th Plan shifts resource allocation toward commercialization support, including government procurement, manufacturing subsidies, and application deployments.
The National Venture Guidance Fund allocated RMB 121.8 billion across three regional quantum-focused funds: Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (quantum computing and sensing), Yangtze River Delta (quantum communications and industrial applications), and Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao (commercial products). This represents a deliberate pivot from pure research investment toward market-driven quantum technology deployment.
China’s quantum computing industry scale reached a significant growth trajectory, with industry scale reaching 11.56 billion yuan (approximately $1.61 billion) in 2025, maintaining annual growth rates exceeding 30 percent. In technical domains where international collaboration remains possible, Chinese and Western quantum companies operate at broadly equivalent technological levels in quantum cryptography.
However, geopolitical factors increasingly determine technology development trajectories – U.S. export controls now require licenses for quantum computers with 34+ qubits meeting performance criteria, cryogenic systems with cooling power exceeding 600 µW below 0.1K, and related quantum control electronics. These restrictions accelerate Chinese localization of supply chains, with companies developing indigenous cryogenic systems, laser control electronics, and fabrication capabilities. China has simultaneously tightened rules on critical raw materials, establishing parallel innovation ecosystems.
Chinese quantum companies are strategically pursuing international expansion beyond export-restricted markets. Origin Quantum signed an agreement with ChinaLink ESGt to develop what could become Europe’s largest integrated computing center in Malaga, Spain, demonstrating ambitions for European footprint despite geopolitical constraints. SpinQ has expanded desktop quantum systems into 30+ countries including major universities. QuantumCTek continues international quantum key distribution infrastructure deployment. This geographic diversification reflects China’s strategic positioning of quantum technology as both national strategic asset and commercial export opportunity. Chinese quantum companies increasingly operate as parallel innovation ecosystems rather than participants in Western-dominated development models.
Going Deeper – China Geopolitical Report
For a comprehensive analysis of China’s quantum technology ecosystem, including geopolitical dynamics, export controls, capital flows, talent pipeline, and technology capabilities, The Quantum Insider has published a dedicated China Geopolitical Report (February 2026). The report covers China’s quantum strategy across the 14th and 15th Five-Year Plans, the emerging perimeter around China’s ecosystem shaped by Western export controls and Chinese data security laws, civil-military fusion implications, and detailed funding landscape analysis. To access the full report or discuss advisory engagement, visit The Quantum Insider’s market intelligence platform or contact our advisory team.
For broader context on the global quantum computing landscape and competitive dynamics, explore our guides on leading quantum computing countries, quantum computing startups worldwide, quantum cryptography and communications, quantum computing applications, and the history of quantum computing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much has China invested in quantum computing development?
China’s estimated quantum computing investment reaches approximately $15 billion across government agencies, state enterprises, and private companies. The 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) allocated specific quantum computing budgets within national innovation initiatives. The emerging 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) is expected to substantially increase quantum allocations as geopolitical competition intensifies. Additionally, a $138 billion broader technology advancement fund introduced in 2025 includes substantial quantum computing investment.
Which Chinese quantum company is most advanced?
Advancement varies by domain. Origin Quantum and Baidu Quantum lead in superconducting quantum computing with substantial qubit counts and cloud services. QuantumCTek leads quantum cryptography and quantum key distribution with actual deployed national infrastructure. SpinQ leads in accessible quantum education systems. No single company dominates across all quantum computing domains—Chinese development is specialized across multiple companies and modalities.
How do export controls affect Chinese quantum companies?
Export controls restrict Chinese companies’ access to advanced semiconductor components, specialized manufacturing equipment, and Western research collaborations. These restrictions accelerate Chinese development of domestic alternatives while increasing costs and extending development timelines in some domains. However, restrictions also justify sustained government support by framing quantum computing as essential to national security and technological sovereignty.
Is Chinese quantum technology competitive globally?
Competitiveness varies by domain. Chinese quantum cryptography systems are globally competitive and deployed at scale. Chinese superconducting quantum computers match or exceed Western progress in qubit counts and certain performance metrics. However, Chinese development remains less advanced in photonic quantum computing and quantum error correction. The bifurcated landscape reflects both genuine technical achievements and limitations imposed by export controls.
What are China’s quantum computing applications priorities?
Chinese priorities focus on optimization problems for finance and logistics, drug discovery and chemical simulation, artificial intelligence enhancement, and cryptanalysis. Defense and national security applications motivate development alongside civilian applications. The emphasis on near-term practical applications differs somewhat from Western approaches that emphasize longer-term quantum advantage development.
