As quantum technologies (QT) move from foundational research toward industrial and societal deployment, national strategies have become critical instruments for shaping the future of this emerging field. In this study, we conduct the first large-scale, data-driven analysis of 62 national quantum strategic documents (QSDs) from 20 countries. Using AI-based natural language processing (topic modeling), we identify 12 topics present in the text, ranging from technical development areas to transversal aspects such as workforce development and governance. Temporal analysis reveals a distinct shift in policy discourse toward applications of QT and commercialisation, and relatively away from basic science. Our findings highlight the increasing diversification of the QT field, and contribute to the growing area of quantum policy studies. We advocate for more AI and data-driven analyses of the quantum ecosystem, to work toward a scalable framework for understanding the technological and societal challenges of the second quantum revolution.
As quantum technologies (QT) move from foundational research toward industrial and societal deployment, national strategies have become critical instruments for shaping the future of this emerging field. In this study, we conduct the first large-scale, data-driven analysis of 62 national quantum strategic documents (QSDs) from 20 countries. Using AI-based natural language processing (topic modeling), we identify 12 topics present in the text, ranging from technical development areas to transversal aspects such as workforce development and governance. Temporal analysis reveals a distinct shift in policy discourse toward applications of QT and commercialisation, and relatively away from basic science. Our findings highlight the increasing diversification of the QT field, and contribute to the growing area of quantum policy studies. We advocate for more AI and data-driven analyses of the quantum ecosystem, to work toward a scalable framework for understanding the technological and societal challenges of the second quantum revolution.
As quantum technologies (QT) move from foundational research toward industrial and societal deployment, national strategies have become critical instruments for shaping the future of this emerging field. In this study, we conduct the first large-scale, data-driven analysis of 62 national quantum strategic documents (QSDs) from 20 countries. Using AI-based natural language processing (topic modeling), we extract 12,786 paragraphs and identify 12 topics present in the text, ranging from technical development areas to transversal aspects such as workforce development and governance. Temporal analysis reveals a distinct shift in policy discourse toward applications of QT and commercialisation, and relatively away from basic science. Our findings highlight the increasing diversification of the QT field, and contribute to the growing area of quantum policy studies. We advocate for more AI and data-driven analyses of the quantum ecosystem, to work toward a scalable framework for understanding the technological and societal challenges of the second quantum revolution.
Abstract Quantum technologies have the potential to play a significant role in future technological and economic advancement. However, our understanding of the specific narratives and topics present in national quantum technology policies is limited, even though these policies are vital for shaping global strategies, progress, and responsible development in the field. In this study, we use narrative policy analysis together with computational topic modeling to examine 55 governmental documents from 24 countries, covering over a decade. Using BERTopic modeling and the Narrative Policy Framework, the results reveal that national initiatives primarily focus on technological leadership for security and economic prosperity, assessing technological readiness, and, to a lesser extent, commercialization, and societal impacts. Over time, we see a trend toward greater alignment in the prevalence of these narratives, with different themes beginning to be considered more equally. Nevertheless, the narrative surrounding responsible quantum development and societal implications remains the least represented. The study shows the strategic priorities of the analyzed countries and introduces an innovative method for analyzing policy texts. Based on the results, we recommend a balanced regulatory approach for quantum technologies that promotes ethical innovation, supports inclusive technological ecosystems, and encourages global collaboration. Furthermore, we caution that an excessive emphasis on leadership and competition may lead to isolated innovation systems that could hinder progress, cooperation, and joint efforts.
Quantum technologies are increasingly recognized as a disruptive frontier that will shape the next generation of industrial strategies. Developments in quantum computing, communication, and sensing promise not only technical breakthroughs but also significant economic and geopolitical consequences. Quantum computing can accelerate drug discovery, materials research, and complex optimization, while quantum communication opens new possibilities for secure data transfer beyond the reach of classical encryption. According to European Commission Reports and National Quantum Initiative Act, leading economies are already investing heavily: the European Union has committed over €1 billion to its Quantum Flagship program, while the United States launched the National Quantum Initiative Act in 2018 to coordinate research and industrial applications. These initiatives underscore the strategic nature of the field. For industrial policy, they also raise important questions: How should governments design roadmaps that foster public–private collaboration? What forms of regulation or incentives are needed to align innovation with competitiveness and security? At the same time, quantum technologies could support sustainability goals, for example through energy-efficient algorithms and advanced climate modeling. Positioning quantum technologies not only as an enabler but as a driver of future industrial policy is essential. Unlike incremental innovations, quantum breakthroughs will actively shape the direction of national strategies, global competitiveness, and sustainability agendas. Recognizing this driver role ensures that policymakers and industries move beyond adaptation, taking a proactive stance in designing resilient and forward-looking industrial ecosystems.
Abstract - Quantum computing has evolved from a physics-driven theoretical concept into a rapidly expanding technological ecosystem encompassing computation, communication, sensing, and security. This paper presents a timeline-based analytical study of this evolution, examining how successive scientific and technological eras shaped the transition from foundational quantum theory to modern noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) platforms and distributed quantum infrastructures. Rather than offering a purely chronological account, the study evaluates each phase using comparative metrics such as scientific maturity, technological capability, scalability, error resilience, application readiness, and interdisciplinary integration. Beyond technical progress, the paper highlights the growing role of academic institutions in developing foundational methods and workforce capacity, alongside industrial efforts in hardware engineering, cloud-based access, and commercialization. These developments are further reinforced by large-scale public investments through national quantum missions and regional innovation programs, positioning quantum technologies as strategic components of future digital infrastructure. By integrating historical evolution with ecosystem and policy perspectives, this work aims to clarify how scientific constraints, engineering challenges, and institutional drivers collectively shape the current trajectory and future direction of quantum technologies. Key Words: quantum, timeline, global impact, hybrid, evolution
Abstract Quantum technologies (QT) promise to change the landscape of technologies disruptively in diverse industries. For this reason, many nations around the globe are investing to emerge within the global quantum ecosystem through initiating national programmes and international partnerships. Nonetheless, some other countries are still running behind and yet their governments need to take series actions to help their private and public sectors adapt to the looming changes, considering the new regulations required and the huge influence that QT will present in the near future. In this opinion piece, the authors provide, to the best of their knowledge, the first generally applicable, yet comprehensive and brief, framework for leveraging the emerging QT to facilitate the establishment of national initiatives properly. The insights presented in this article were driven based on investigating various approaches, initiatives, and roadmaps adopted globally and meeting with local and regional leaders, professionals, and governmental officials. Furthermore, taken into account socioeconomic and institutional dimensions of the Libyan society, the framework for the Libyan nation is projected. This opinion piece is intended to inspire researchers, technical industrial experts, stakeholders, and governmental bodies to find roles they need to play to bring QT forward.
Purpose This study aims to clarify the status of national strategies regarding quantum computing (QC) technology and evaluate whether and how governments worldwide are aware of potential threats and benefits, as well as anticipate actions, drawing from recent experiences in artificial intelligence. Design/methodology/approach Extensive research was conducted on academic papers, national strategies, policy documents, government official statements and reports and announcements from major technology companies. Findings The geopolitical dynamics for QC reveal a complex scenario influenced by defence strategies and research efforts aimed at gaining competitive advantages. However, a quantum future that addresses social challenges seems weak in national strategies. Originality/value Given the paucity of the QC literature in public management, this study encourages proactive governance research on disruptive technologies, such as QC.