Regulation of Quantum Communication at the Regional Level: The Experience of China and Russia

Abstract

Quantum communication is among the key segments of the data economy in Russia and of the digital economy in China. Both countries are developing legal frameworks for the quantum communication. In Russia, this process takes place predominantly at the federal level, whereas China has an integrated regulatory system in which provinces with advancing quantum technologies also play an active role in adopting legal instruments for their regulation. The article analyses the specific features of provincial-level regulation of quantum communication in China. Particular emphasis is placed on the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area, and specifically on measures to support and develop quantum technologies that have been approved by its Administrative Committee—the “Measures for Promoting the Development of Quantum Science and Industry in the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area.” The article further examines regulation in Zhejiang Province and Hangzhou, in Anhui Province and the Hefei High-Tech Zone, as well as in other provinces (Shanghai, Nanjing, Guangdong). These jurisdictions focus predominantly working out specific measures to stimulate and advance technologies, aimed at achieving their world-class level, which in turn presupposes a systematic approach. Recently, the Russian economy has seen the implementation of several projects involving the creation and use of quantum communication and related equipment, some of them have been introduced at the level of Russia’s regions. Under the Russian Constitution, matters concerning communications and information technology fall within federal jurisdiction. Since regions have not been vested with the corresponding powers, they may regulate only supportive activities for innovative projects in this field. By comparing China’s integrated, province-level regulation with Russia’s primarily federal-level framework, the article provides an understanding of how both countries legally support the development of quantum communication. While adopting a comparative perspective, the analysis places particular emphasis on China’s regulatory architecture and province-level practices. This analysis reveals common challenges and distinct pathways in designing legal mechanisms for quantum technologies in different constitutional settings.