As a result of growing concerns about the potential weaponisation of this technology by foreign militaries, the government is taking action against exports to foreign buyers.
Exporters are prohibited from selling powerful Quantum Computers until they receive a license at the beginning of this month.
Export Control Joint Unit which monitors sales of sensitive items has added the technology to its list of dual-use items that may have military applications.
Both China and Russia are making substantial investments in quantum technologies as part of a race that has been called a global one.
Quantum computers are able to harness the unique qualities of quantum physics, which could allow them to outpace supercomputers by a wide margin in certain areas.
The UK is in a race to develop the technology, according to a national quantum computer strategy that was published last year. It described it as “critically important” and “vital” for national security and defence.
This week, the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) updated its export rules to include multiple technologies relating to quantum computers. The Department for Business and Trade updated export rules this week to include multiple technologies related to quantum computers.
Google developed a quantum computer with 70 qubits, while IBM built a machine that has 1,121. Many companies are aiming to build millions-qubit quantum computers that could transform science through the invention of new materials, chemicals and advanced artificial intelligence systems.
The systems could also make it easy to decode secret communication. Intelligence agencies harvest encrypted messages in hopes of one day being able to decode them.
These restrictions include the use of cryogenic cooling systems and semiconductors which operate at ultra-low temperatures, close to absolute zero.
These changes are part of an update to the export rules that was agreed upon by Western allies, including the US and many major European countries. France, which has a lot of expertise in quantum computer technology, introduced specific restrictions at the beginning of this month.
Quantum UK, a UK-based industry group, said that British companies are concerned about further export controls and they may even deter US companies from relocating to the UK.
Previously, exporting quantum computers was only subject to licensing in certain cases. For example, when there was a likelihood that they would be used for military purposes. Oxford Instruments, a company that makes cooling systems for Quantum Computers, reported last year that its sales in China were being affected by increased curbs.
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