Microsoft (MSFT, Financial) President Brad Smith has stressed the urgent need for the US government to allocate more funds to quantum computing research, warning that China could surpass the US, potentially threatening economic competitiveness and national security. Despite the common belief that the US holds a leading position, Smith suggests that China might already be on par with the US in this field. He highlights the potential risk of the US falling behind or losing the race completely.
According to Smith, the momentum around quantum computing research is growing among major tech companies and investors, positioning it as a possible successor to the artificial intelligence boom. To maintain competitiveness, he calls for the US government to increase funding, reignite the National Quantum Initiative Act, expand DARPA's quantum computing testing, and expedite immigration procedures for quantum-skilled PhDs. Additionally, Smith advocates for the government to purchase more quantum-related components to solidify the US supply chain.
