Italian Competition Authority investigates quantum computing sector for potential antitrust violations
Updated
Updated · The National Law Review · Apr 27
Italian Competition Authority investigates quantum computing sector for potential antitrust violations
11 articles · Updated · The National Law Review · Apr 27
The AGCM's inquiry focuses on early-stage consolidation, vertical integration, and preferential access to quantum infrastructure in Italy's emerging quantum computing industry.
Regulators are concerned that control over critical hardware, software layers, and standards could create bottlenecks, stifle competition, and entrench dominant firms as the sector develops.
These antitrust risks mirror those seen in other technology markets, with quantum computing's technical complexity and concentrated supply chains heightening concerns about input foreclosure and ecosystem control.
Are big tech's cloud platforms an unfair advantage in the quantum-as-a-service race?
Is China's control over critical minerals the biggest threat to Western quantum leadership?
Will the race for industry standards create open ecosystems or proprietary walled gardens?
Is vertical integration in the 'quantum stack' a path to innovation or monopoly?
How will IonQ's $1.8B deal to create a full-stack platform reshape the industry?