Jack Ma named as UNCTAD Special Adviser

Jack Ma, the founder and executive chairman of Alibaba Group, has been named Special Adviser of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) on Youth Entrepreneurship and Small Business. In his new role as UNCTAD Special Adviser, Ma will champion initiatives to make it easier for young entrepreneurs and small businesses, particularly in developing countries, to participate in global trade, as well as raise awareness about the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

“Mr. Ma is an influential and respected pioneer of the internet era, innovator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist,” UNCTAD Secretary-General Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi said.

“He brings a visionary approach to entrepreneurship, a thirst for learning, and a belief in a better world that make him a perfect match for UNCTAD. Together we will be able to reach out to communities that feel left behind in today’s global landscape with a message of hope and self-empowerment.”