Two thirds of companies see quantum computing as an opportunity, but only 8% are working intensively on it. Many are calling for funding for pilot projects and better access to quantum platforms. This is according to the study report "Quantum computing in the German economy 2026" by the digital association Bitkom.

The German economy predominantly rates quantum computing as a future technology, but is hardly driving the topic forward. 67% of companies with 100 or more employees see it as an opportunity, 19% see it as a risk and 9% do not expect it to have any impact. 80% consider the technology to be important for the economy as a whole. At the same time, 56% assume that competitors will use it.

Nevertheless, activity remains low: 64% want to wait for the experiences of others first. Only 8% are very intensively involved in quantum computing, and a further 27% to a lesser extent. 42% are planning to start or can imagine doing so.

"Quantum computing is not yet a technology that can be easily used across the economy. However, quantum computing has the potential to change entire industries, from materials research and healthcare to logistics and retail," says Bitkom President Dr. Ralf Wintergerst. "It is worth building up expertise and experimenting with quantum computing at an early stage."

Quantum computing uses the effects of quantum physics to solve complex calculations faster than conventional computers. Fields of application include logistics, drug development and materials research. At the same time, existing encryption methods could become vulnerable.

Europe strong in research

In an international comparison, only 3% see Germany as a leader. 35% place the country in the midfield, 29% as a laggard. The USA (32%) is regarded as the leader, ahead of China (14%) and Japan (13%). 12% do not currently see any leading country.

"Europe is strong in quantum research, but we are still struggling to mobilize private capital and translate research results into concrete applications," says Wintergerst. "Germany and Europe must take a leading role in quantum computing. Highly developed skills in quantum computing are a basic prerequisite for digital sovereignty in the future."

When it comes to IT security, the picture is mixed: 94% see fundamental risks from quantum computing. 44% consider them to be high, 50% rather low. Around a third of interested or active companies have not yet taken any measures. 46% are carrying out or planning risk analyses, 39% are focusing on raising awareness. 29% are working on quantum-safe encryption, 22% are analyzing their cryptographic systems.

The biggest hurdles to implementation

Companies cite a lack of personnel (65%), regulatory uncertainties and doubts about the maturity of the technology (61% each) as the biggest hurdles. 56% lack an overview of offerings and use cases, 54% lack the necessary knowledge. 47% see no clear economic benefit, 41% complain about limited access to hardware or test environments, 27% lack the necessary budget.

Above all, companies want practical support: 69% want funding for pilot projects, 67% want easier access to quantum platforms, for example via cloud services. 66% would like more market overview, 61% training and 50% concrete application examples.

"Companies don't want lofty visions, they want tangible entry-level tools for quantum computing," says Wintergerst.

The study is based on a representative survey of 607 companies with 100 or more employees from industry and the service sector. The survey took place between October and November 2025.