Quantum technologies are already reshaping security, sovereignty and competitiveness, well ahead of widespread commercial adoption. More than 35 countries have committed nearly $66 billion to national quantum strategies, yet the Global South accounts for just 2.4% of that total. This creates a growing quantum divide.

Developed by FII Institute in collaboration with Accenture, this report explains why post-quantum cryptography migration cannot wait for “Q-Day.” It sets out four strategic pathways for emerging economies: quantum sovereignty, regional hub, niche capabilities and a seat at the table. It closes with six imperatives for governments and business leaders to turn quantum ambition into quantum readiness.

Authors: Omar Boulos, CEO, Middle East and Africa Market Unit, Accenture; Tom Patterson, Emerging Technology Security Managing Director, Accenture; Laura Converso, Technology Research Principal Director, Accenture; and Paloma Haschke-Joseph, Director of Research and Thought Leadership, MEA, Accenture.