EU plans quantum leap: leadership role by 2030 through investments!

EU plans quantum leap: leadership role by 2030 through investments!

In a world that is increasingly shaped by technology, quantum technology is currently in focus of European politics. On July 2, 2025, EU technology chief Henna Virkkuns announced that the European Union would like to recruit private investors in order to take on a leading role in this aspiring sector by 2030. An optimistic step that aims to significantly reduce the dependence on the USA and China. Market screen that the EU has invested over 11 billion euros in quantum technology in the past five years.

A look at the numbers shows that only about 5 % of global private investments are currently flowing to Europe in this area. This is to be drastically changed with the new quantum strategy, because the EU plans a comprehensive bundle of measures to promote the quantum ecosystem.

The quantum strategy of the EU

The quantum strategy aims to make Europe a global leader in quantum technology by 2030. The focus is on a resilient and confident quantum ecosystem. According to of the European Commission this should be done by strengthening start-ups and the conversion of scientific breakdowns into market tires take place.

Another central point of the strategy is to promote six quantum chip pilot lines for the development of manufacturing products. A pilot plant for a European quantum internet is also planned. Until 2040, thousands of highly qualified jobs in the EU are expected, which could catapult the value of the quanta sector to over 155 billion euros.

opportunities and challenges

But what is behind this technology? Developments in recent years have offered great potential, especially in Germany, where interest in industrial applications in quantum technology has increased significantly. A study of the Fraunhofer-Instituts emphasizes innovation potential and challenges in three areas:

• quantum sensors and metrology: Quantum systems are used for precise measurements. Examples are atomic clocks and magnetic field sensors.
• quantum communication and cryptography: technologies such as Qrngs and QKD enable safe communication. The use of quantum mechanical properties ensures additional security.
• quantum computing: This uses the principles of quantum mechanics for complex calculations, but also brings challenges in areas such as error correction and scalability.

Currently, innovative companies in Germany and Europe play a decisive role in international comparison. Germany occupies a strong position in quantum technology research, while China is a leader in quantum communication and sensors. The importance of over $ 40 billion in global state investments is becoming more and more obvious so as not to lose connection in international competition.

The chance that the EU's quantum strategy has a noticeable influence on the growth of European start-ups and the establishment of European quantum solutions remains essential. Political framework conditions that include long-term public grants and the support of start-ups are crucial.

Whatever the developments are certain: the next decade could be decisive for the future of quantum technology in Europe. With the planned “Quantum Act” in the coming year, the basis is laid to create even more opportunities for innovation and growth.