The European Commission is expected to present its proposal for the EU Quantum Act on 18 November, a regulation aimed at strengthening research, investment and European industrial capacity in the field of quantum technologies. The initiative follows the European Quantum Technologies Strategy, adopted in July 2025, which set the objective of making Europe a global leader in this sector by 2030.

Quantum technologies are based on the manipulation of the physical properties of atoms and subatomic particles, such as electrons, protons and photons, to develop solutions in computing, communications, sensing and other fields. The application of quantum technologies could, for example, accelerate the discovery of new medicines and materials, ensure the security of sensitive communications or improve the accuracy of navigation systems and medical diagnostics.

Although European Union Member States have strong research capabilities in the quantum field, challenges remain in translating research into commercial applications. According to an October 2025 study by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre, the EU accounts for approximately 32% of quantum technology companies worldwide but only 6% of patents registered globally. The fragmentation of national and European funding programmes is identified as one of the main obstacles to the growth of companies operating in the sector.

The forthcoming regulation is expected to focus on three pillars: strengthening research and innovation; developing European industrial capacity and fostering investment; and protecting supply chains. Among the measures under consideration by the Commission are the establishment of strategic research and production projects eligible for European and national funding, the development of pilot facilities for manufacturing quantum technologies, and the simplification of licensing procedures.

For businesses and research centres, the initiative could create new opportunities for funding, cooperation and industrial development, particularly in the digital technology, telecommunications, healthcare, space and defence sectors. The proposal is also expected to clarify the framework for strategic projects and their interaction with existing European instruments, such as the EU Chips Act. However, the precise scope of the measures will depend on the text ultimately presented and its subsequent adoption by the European Parliament and the Council.

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