10 July 2026
Australia-ASEAN Cooperation on Emerging Technologies: Quantum Technology Research and Governance as a Case Study
Executive Summary
This report examines Australia-ASEAN cooperation on emerging technologies through a quantum computing case study, focusing on research collaboration, innovation capacity and governance development. It finds that quantum ecosystems across the region remain uneven, with Australia and Singapore serving as primary hubs of research productivity and international connectivity while the other ASEAN member states are weakly integrated into regional networks. Collaboration is limited and largely academic, with insufficient industry participation and a dominant focus on foundational science over applied engineering. The resulting hub-and-spoke structure raises concerns for innovation diffusion and regulatory preparedness, underscoring the need for stronger regional linkages and early governance coordination.
Executive Summary
This report examines Australia-ASEAN cooperation on emerging technologies through a quantum computing case study, focusing on research collaboration, innovation capacity and governance development. It finds that quantum ecosystems across the region remain uneven, with Australia and Singapore serving as primary hubs of research productivity and international connectivity while the other ASEAN member states are weakly integrated into regional networks. Collaboration is limited and largely academic, with insufficient industry participation and a dominant focus on foundational science over applied engineering. The resulting hub-and-spoke structure raises concerns for innovation diffusion and regulatory preparedness, underscoring the need for stronger regional linkages and early governance coordination.
