EU well-positioned in quantum technology but faces challenges in scaling up, report finds

A new report from the Joint Research Centre (JRC), 'Future Directions for Quantum Technology in Europe', highlights the EU’s strengths and challenges in the quantum sector. The EU now hosts 32% of the world’s quantum technology companies, outpacing both the US and China, with over half established since 2018. Between 2012 and 2024, EU companies attracted around €6 billion in private investment, and public funding reached over €9 billion during the last decade.

However, the EU accounts for only 6% of global quantum patents, far behind China (46%) and the US (23%). Still, patent applications in the EU have recently grown rapidly, more than doubling between 2021 and 2024, even as global growth slowed.

The report points out that fragmented public funding and lack of coordination are key challenges, recommending a shift towards fewer, better-funded projects to help companies scale up and innovate. Many European quantum firms remain small and would benefit from a more focused industrial policy.

International collaboration remains a key strength, with 23% of EU patent applications co-filed with non-EU partners, mainly from the US. The JRC concludes that with targeted investments and improved coordination, the EU can further strengthen its global leadership in quantum technology.

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