Sumitomo Corporation and Pasqal collaborate to ride the future quantum wave
Sumitomo Corporation is a globally integrated trading and business investment company with a history spanning over 400 years. Operating through a vast network of 128 offices across 66 countries, the corporation supports approximately 900 companies and employs nearly 80,000 people worldwide. Its diverse business portfolio covers nine core sectors, including automotive, chemicals, energy transformation, and digital media. Guided by the philosophy of “Enriching lives and the world”, Sumitomo Corporation has continuously embraced innovation to address social challenges and create value across industries.
Embracing Quantum Transformation
Recognizing the transformative potential of quantum computing, Sumitomo Corporation launched its Quantum Transformation (QX) Project in 2020. This initiative, spearheaded by the Quantum Transformation Team, was established to explore quantum technology’s vast possibilities in solving complex industrial problems. Led by Yusuke Okazaki, Quantum Transformation Team Leader, the project began as part of the company’s corporate venture capital efforts, focusing on investments in quantum startups and the development of use cases within the Japanese market.
As Okazaki explains, “Our goal is twofold: to leverage quantum computing both as a solution provider and as an end user, ensuring we are prepared for the quantum wave, much like the digital wave before it. This dual approach is critical to ensuring Sumitomo’s leadership in the future quantum landscape.”
The team’s collaboration with Pasqal is a testament to Sumitomo’s commitment to advancing quantum innovation, particularly in industries where optimization and computational complexity challenge traditional methods.
Collaborative Partnership with Pasqal
Sumitomo Corporation formalized its partnership with Pasqal in 2023. This collaboration aims to explore quantum solutions that align with Sumitomo’s broad portfolio while fostering technological advancement in the Japanese quantum ecosystem. Pasqal’s neutral atom quantum processors, known for their scalability and versatility, provide an ideal platform for addressing complex optimization problems.
One of the flagship projects under this partnership focuses on low-altitude air traffic control, particularly optimizing air vehicle routes to address potential congestion as drone usage increases.
“With the rise of air vehicles, traffic jams in the sky are becoming a pressing issue. By applying Pasqal’s quantum computing capabilities, we’re developing mathematical models to solve these challenges in real-time”, said Takuya Mano, Senior Associate at Sumitomo Corporation.
This initiative builds on Sumitomo’s investment in OneSky, a U.S.-based air vehicle control system, and leverages Pasqal’s expertise in quantum optimization.
The partnership extends beyond air traffic control. Sumitomo and Pasqal are exploring other applications, including logistics optimization, quantum AI, and quantum chemistry for material science. These efforts demonstrate the breadth of opportunities that quantum computing presents across industries.
Advancing Japan’s Quantum Ecosystem
Beyond individual projects, Sumitomo Corporation plays a critical role in cultivating a thriving quantum ecosystem in Japan. The partnership with Pasqal includes efforts to engage local stakeholders, from government entities to academic institutions, to promote quantum technology’s adoption. By positioning itself as both an innovator and a facilitator, Sumitomo is driving broader market readiness for quantum solutions.
Mano highlights the collaborative nature of the partnership: “Our work with Pasqal is not just about creating use cases—it’s about building a deeper understanding of the technology on both sides. By aligning our strengths, we’re setting the stage for groundbreaking advancements in industries ranging from mobility to material science.”
Shaping the Future of Quantum Transformation
The partnership between Sumitomo Corporation and Pasqal is still in its early stages, but the potential is vast. Both organizations share a long-term vision of transforming industrial processes through quantum technology. As quantum computing matures, Sumitomo envisions expanding its quantum efforts to include advanced applications in finance, energy, and sustainability.
“Our mission is to lay the groundwork for a future where quantum computing is seamlessly integrated into everyday business operations,” Okazaki noted. “This partnership is a key step in ensuring that Sumitomo remains at the forefront of technological innovation, ready to capitalize on the opportunities quantum computing will bring.”
By combining Pasqal’s technical expertise with Sumitomo’s market reach and strategic vision, the collaboration exemplifies the transformative potential of quantum computing. Together, they are not only advancing the technology but also shaping the future of industries and creating a robust ecosystem for quantum innovation in Japan.
