JIJ partners with Kobe Steel to advance quantum computing adoption

Japan-based company JIJ has announced that it has signed a framework agreement with Kobe Steel to advance the adoption of quantum computing technologies across the KOBELCO Group.

Under the agreement, the companies will launch a multi-year initiative to establish a Quantum Center of Excellence (Quantum CoE) and support the practical use of quantum computing technologies across the KOBELCO Group, JIJ said.

The KOBELCO Group operates across three core business areas: materials, machinery, and electric power. Across these businesses, the Group provides a diverse range of technologies, products, and services while addressing increasingly complex business challenges.

The initiative will focus on technical implementation, talent development and building internal expertise, and developing next-generation computing foundations to enable continued use of these technologies across the KOBELCO Group. 

“During the first year, the program will focus primarily on materials development, production management, and process optimization,” JIJ said. “Specific target themes include materials design and development that balances conflicting properties, as well as production planning under multiple processes and constraints—areas where conventional methods can be difficult to apply.”

JIJ develops and implements technologies in quantum computing and mathematical optimization, with a focus on industrial applications. Through its activities in quantum computing industry networks in Japan and overseas, as well as participation in national research and development projects, JIJ has built extensive expertise in applying these technologies to practical business challenges.