Madrid recently witnessed a milestone for the digital future of the country. The Spanish government, represented by ministers Óscar López and Diana Morant, has officially unveiled the first Quantum Technologies Strategy 2025-2030, an ambitious national plan with an initial investment of 808 million euros, which could reach 1.5 billion euros with public and private contributions.
The announcement was made during the Global Technology Forum of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), held at the Telefónica Foundation Space. The main objective is to position Spain as a leading player in the quantum revolution that will define the coming decades.
A Comprehensive Strategy for Disruptive Change
The Strategy aims to achieve two goals: strengthen the national quantum ecosystem—in both research and market aspects—and prepare society for the impact these technologies will have across multiple sectors.
Unlike traditional technology based on classical physics, quantum technologies will enable calculations that today would take centuries to be completed in just minutes, transmit information ultra-securely over long distances, and measure physical properties with unprecedented precision.
Key practical applications include:
- Ultra-precise planning of electrical grids.
- Discovery of new drugs through advanced molecular simulations.
- Modeling of climate risks for better disaster management.
- Development of sustainable catalysts for fertilizers.
- Creation of advanced materials in strategic sectors like defense.
“The current digital transformation is driving technologies that will change the world as we know it. Quantum technology is one of them, and Spain must specialize, especially in quantum communications, which are essential for protecting critical environments like financial transactions or the energy grid,” emphasized Óscar López.
Diana Morant noted, “Investing in quantum research is betting on leading the disruptive innovations that will define the 21st century.”
Seven Strategic Priorities for a Strong Ecosystem
The Strategy organizes its efforts around seven key priorities:
- Promotion of Spanish companies in quantum technologies.
- Convergence of artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
- Consolidation of Spain as a leader in quantum communications.
- Demonstration of tangible impacts in sensing and quantum metrology.
- Protection of privacy in a post-quantum future.
- Strengthening capacities in infrastructure, research, and talent.
- Creation of a coordinated and leading Spanish quantum ecosystem in Europe.
The plan is backed by the European Regional Development Funds (FEDER) and the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR), and aligns with the European Union’s digital sovereignty initiatives.
According to data from the European Commission, one in four quantum SMEs in the world is located in Europe, reflecting a real opportunity for Spain and the EU to lead this new market, estimated to be worth 173 billion dollars by 2040.
First Action: The Quantum Communications Hub
As part of its implementation, the government has approved the creation of the Quantum Communications Hub, with an initial investment of 10 million euros. This Hub will promote:
- Real use cases in quantum communications.
- Advanced research in quantum photonics.
- Training and outreach initiatives.
Institutions such as the Institute of Photonic Sciences of Catalonia and the Polytechnic University of Madrid will be among the main beneficiaries, receiving millions of euros to strengthen their capabilities.
A Strategic Bet in the Global Geopolitical Context
The event brought together experts from over 38 OECD member countries. The forum highlighted the importance of investing in quantum technologies in an international context marked by technological competition and digital sovereignty challenges.
María González Veracruz, Secretary of State for Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, emphasized that “the quantum race is not just an opportunity, but a strategic necessity to ensure Spain’s competitiveness and economic security.”
This afternoon, the strategy will be presented at a public event to bring scientific advances closer to citizens, as part of the commitment to transparent communication and social preparation for the disruptive changes that quantum computing will bring.
Source: Digital.gob.es