Quantum Computing Hefei Became China’s Innovation Model
Quantum Computing Hefei
Hefei, the capital of Anhui Province in east China, is becoming a national leader in commercialising scientific discoveries. The city’s “Hefei Model” shows how to efficiently organise fundamental research, government regulations, and supply chain development to speed up the construction of quantum technology and fusion energy firms.
Residents of Hefei joke that their city has two suns—one in the sky and one in an industrial park. The Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) replicates solar fusion, the “artificial sun”. China seeks commercial fusion power, a possibly infinite clean energy source. EAST operated a steady-state high-confinement plasma system for 1,066 seconds earlier this year, setting a global record. Based on this success, engineers are developing the Burning Plasma Experimental Superconducting Tokamak (BEST) nearby, which will be the first to demonstrate fusion power generation.
In addition to these amazing technological advances, these test facilities have a thriving commerce. Even though commercial fusion power may not be ready for 10–2 years, the field has progressed tremendously. Many of Hefei’s 60 fusion-related enterprises supply experimental facility building materials. Domestic superconductor manufacture, which formerly relied on imports and generated supply and delivery issues, is a success. Yan Jianwen, chairman of Fusion Energy Tech., predicts a “gigantic industry” if fusion energy is realised. Domestic firms have substantially improved their output.
Yang Qingxi, Fusion Energy Tech’s BEST deputy director, calls this strategy ‘laying eggs along the road’. This metaphor portrays the formation of new high-tech firms and positive spin-offs once commercial fusion power is achieved. This strategy generates profits and resources for important technology development. Fusion research spin-offs are employed in real life:
Hefei’s metro has fusion spin-off security check equipment.
A proton treatment device for several tumours will enter clinical trials soon.
Quantum technology has also grown in Hefei, thanks to groundbreaking research by the University of Science and Technology of China. This research has created a vibrant application environment, especially along “Quantum Avenue,” where hundreds of tech companies are commercialising quantum technologies like quantum computing, measurement, and communication.
Example: China Telecom Quantum Group, which offers quantum-encrypted calls and communications. Chairman Lyu Pin estimates that 6 million people use these services, many of them business owners concerned about commercial espionage. Quantum communication is secure, making data transport nearly impermeable. Wiretaps or interceptions collapse and detect quantum information. Lyu predicts tens of millions more users as privacy awareness rises.
Quantum technology is implemented successfully due to strong company-researcher collaboration and a supportive local administration that approves innovative technologies swiftly. Zhang Jianxiao, China Telecom Quantum Group’s chief of sci-tech innovation, stressed the importance of speed because basic science takes decades to reach the market, making marketisation and government backing crucial for rewards.
Critical features of the “Hefei Model” have contributed to its success:
Early Supply Chain Building: The city helps area enterprises build supply networks before fusion power or quantum computing become commercially viable. This vision ensures domestic supply and positions area enterprises for growth and leadership in cutting-edge industries.
Practical Use of Research Tools: Even if the major scientific goal is years or decades away, the model emphasises identifying and using laboratory research tools and procedures. The market is immediately affected and useful spin-off technology is produced.
Responsible Local Government: Businesses, researchers, and the city government collaborate and communicate. The Hefei city administration has a separate office for research-to-industry, which speeds up approval and commercialisation of new innovations.
“Laying Eggs Along the Way”: This strategy involves starting new high-tech companies and profiting from spin-off technologies while producing major scientific discoveries. This funds and spurs technical advancement.
The approach illustrates that businesses, fundamental research institutes, and local and national governments are well coordinated. This comprehensive approach aligns market incentives, law, and research to bridge scientific discovery and industrial application.
Hefei’s approach follows China’s national plan to create growth mechanisms to finance investments in growing areas including 6G, bio-manufacturing, quantum technology, and embodied intelligence. China’s innovation pipeline has struggled to bridge core scientific research and industrial application, but this national endeavour aims to accelerate market response.
Hefei’s success can teach countries building quantum and deep tech ecosystems. The city’s history indicates that frontier research can launch new economic sectors with the correct policies and infrastructure. The Hefei model can assist other industries commercialise scientific advancements.