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Convener from Japan Elected to Lead the Working Group for the International Standardization of Quantum Technologies
Japan will lead the development of global rules for quantum technologies
October 24, 2025
A convener to lead a new working group (WG) within IEC/ISO JTC3, an international organization that develops global standards on quantum technologies, was elected from among the Japanese Industrial Standards Committee (JISC) team under the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). The Government of Japan recognizes the WG as the most vital one of IEC/ISO JTC3.
1. Quantum technologies that will transform the industrial structure
Quantum technologies are currently attracting global attention for their potential to rapidly solve problems that traditional computers struggle with.
In June 2025, METI announced initiatives to accelerate international standardization and designated quantum technologies as one of the five pilot areas in which the Government of Japan needs to lead in establishing international standards in coordination with industrial policies.
2. Japanese convener elected to lead the WG for quantum technologies
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) established the Joint Technical Committee 3 (JTC 3) in January 2024 to accelerate the social implementation of quantum technologies and are working to develop a framework for international standardization.
JISC has led discussions on performance benchmarking metrics for quantum computing, including real-world applications. In recognition of the committee’s contributions, many member countries of the WG tasked with developing global standards in this field (WG12) endorsed and elected JISC’s expert, Deputy Director Masahiro Horibe of the Global Research and Development Center for Business by Quantum-AI technology (G-QuAT), as the WG’s convener.
During the press conference after attending the inauguration ceremony of G-QuAT on May 18, 2025, then-Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba specifically referred to Japan’s leadership in standardizing performance benchmarking metrics and other aspects of quantum computing.
3. Going forward
Through the global standardization of quantum computing benchmarks, the Government of Japan will lead the establishment of international rules for quantum technologies, which are directly linked to diverse societal fields, including future industrial platforms, security, communications, and computational technology, thereby contributing to the social implementation of quantum technologies.
Related Links
Division in Charge
International Electrotechnology Standardization Division, Innovation and Environment Policy Bureau