China’s first practical PQC chip released in Henan

Henan Daily

Zhengzhou: A cybersecurity firm based in Zhengzhou has unveiled a quantum-resistant cryptographic chip, PQC01, following a successful tape-out at SMIC. The launch marks a significant step forward for Henan in developing homegrown technologies in the field of quantum security. As Chinas first practical, multi-scenario, self-adaptive chip designed to withstand quantum threats, PQC01 offers an independent and locally developed solution to the challenges posed by the advent of quantum computing.

Quantum computing is advancing rapidly, posing a growing threat to traditional encryption algorithms. Critical sectors such as financial transactions, defence communications, and government data are increasingly vulnerable to quantum attacks. By combining advanced mathematics with chip-level design, post-quantum cryptography is designed to withstand the power of quantum computers. Often described as a “digital Great Wall”, it plays a strategic role in safeguarding cybersecurity and holds significant commercial potential across the digital economy.

Over the years, this cybersecurity firm has made steady progress in the field of post-quantum cryptography, overcoming a series of technical challenges including algorithm reconfigurability, heterogeneous integration, and low-power design. The newly released PQC01 chip leads the domestic field in several key areas -from reconfigurable algorithm support and security management to resistance against attacks, energy efficiency, and manufacturing process. It is designed to support a wide range of use cases, including post-quantum cryptographic applications, legacy encryption, and hybrid transitional scenarios. With built-in flexibility for future cryptographic algorithm upgrades, the chip offers a robust and sustainable solution for quantum-safe migration and multi-scenario deployment in emerging fields.