On March 11-14, a Swedish quantum delegation visited Singapore. The purpose was to exchange knowledge, identify collaboration opportunities, and discuss the potential implications and applications of quantum technologies in both countries. The delegation consisted of experts from academia, research institutes, industry, and government agencies. Besides QSIP, the Swedish Embassy and Vinnova contributed to the delegation's efforts. On the Singaporean side, the primary partner was NQO.
During the first two days, NQO arranged meetings with researchers at CQT and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). Each research group presented their work, and lab visits were conducted. A strong connection emerged between Swedish startups and researchers, and concrete collaboration opportunities began to materialize even in the initial discussions.
The Swedish ambassador hosted a formal dinner for a total of 40 people at his residence. The delegation, along with key players from the local ecosystem, gathered at round tables. The event was highly appreciated and further strengthened ties between the two countries.
On the third day, Ericsson in Singapore hosted a workshop. Together with a representative from Ericsson Sweden, they explained how Ericsson is working with quantum technology. Research and development are conducted domestically, but in Singapore, Ericsson is involved in concrete development collaborations with the largest mobile operator, Singtel, and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). The work focuses on making the 5G network quantum secure while simultaneously developing 6G to be secure from the outset. It is critical to introduce quantum-resistant cryptography into mobile networks as soon as possible, as standards must be in place by 2026.
That same afternoon, an event was organized in collaboration with the partner SG Innovate. Companies and researchers participating in the delegation had the opportunity to pitch their solutions to a Singaporean audience of companies, government agencies, and investors. Where Jon Wingborg, QSIP’s representative, acted as the moderator.
On the final day of the program, all members of the delegation were invited to Singapore’s Quantum Industry Day. The event largely focused on Singapore’s new quantum strategy and how the country aims to become quantum-safe and quantum-ready. High-level representatives from the Cyber Security Agency, IMDA, and NQO were present. The Swedish delegation was especially welcomed as honored guests. One of Asia’s leading banks shared how they are preparing for the quantum future. A strong message throughout the day was that the time to act is now. A comparison was made to Y2K, which, despite being a relatively simple transition, still caused global panic when last-minute concerns arose. The transition to a quantum world is significantly more complex and unpredictable.
Many risks associated with quantum technology were discussed. One example that Singapore is particularly aware of is the "harvest now – decrypt later" tactic, where malicious actors collect encrypted information today, anticipating that they will be able to break it in the future.
We are now looking forward to continuing the collaboration between Singapore and Sweden and as a next step a delegation will come from Singapore to IQT Nordics in May 2025.
The following organizations was joining the delegation, Vinnova, QSIP, Chalmers NextLab, Ericsson, RISE, Linköping University, Chalmers University, KTH Royal Institute of Technologies, LiNPha, Svenska Laserfabriken, Scalinq, QET Swedem, QuCertify and ConScience.
By: Joanna Boqvist (Vinnova) and Jon Wingborg (QSIP/Chalmers Industriteknik)