Paraíba Advances with Major Investment in Latin America's First Quantum Computing Center
Paraíba is investing over R$ 80 million to establish Ciquanta, Latin America's first quantum computing center, with support from Brazil's federal government.
- • Ciquanta will house Latin America’s first quantum computer with 20 and 100 qubit machines.
- • Investment exceeds R$ 80 million with federal and state government collaboration.
- • Center aims to integrate research, training, and development of quantum technology applications.
- • Project site spans over 5,100 square meters at former Estação das Artes Luciano Agra.
Key details
The government of Paraíba is spearheading a landmark project to establish the Centro Internacional de Computação Quântica (Ciquanta) in João Pessoa, which will house the first quantum computer in Latin America. This ambitious initiative has attracted over R$ 80 million in investments to create a strategic hub for quantum technology development and professional training.
The project is located at the former Estação das Artes Luciano Agra and will span more than 5,100 square meters. It is set to feature two operational quantum computers with capacities of 20 and 100 qubits. The center's mission will encompass advancing scientific research, fostering innovation, and developing applications in quantum technologies for both public and private sectors.
The recent visit by Daniel Gomes de Almeida Filho, Secretary of Technological Development and Innovation from Brazil's Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI), reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to collaborating with Paraíba's state administration. Secretary Claudio Furtado of Paraíba's Science, Technology, Innovation and Higher Education emphasized this partnership is vital for nurturing a "platform for training and strategic solutions development," noting that the quantum computer is not merely equipment but a foundation for long-term science and technology investment.
Amílcar Rabelo, president of the Fundação de Apoio à Pesquisa do Estado da Paraíba (Fapesq), highlighted that the project will establish a pioneering culture for quantum technology development in the region. Daniel Gomes praised Paraíba’s forward-looking approach, underscoring the importance of such investments for Brazil's future beyond short-term measures.
The Ciquanta center aims to become a focal point for integrating academic research with technological innovation, preparing highly qualified personnel to drive innovation and applying quantum computing capabilities in various strategic domains. This effort marks a significant milestone in positioning Brazil as a regional leader in cutting-edge quantum technologies.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
