Alibaba Group Holding recently released a statement expressing condolences following the death of Tung Chee-hwa. Tung, who served as Hong Kong’s first chief executive after the handover, held a seat on Alibaba’s board as an independent director for eight years, beginning in 2014 and concluding in 2022.

In their tribute, Alibaba highlighted Tung’s background as a political figure, specifically noting his role as a vice-chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). The company stated that Tung’s global vision was a significant asset that helped the e-commerce giant balance its domestic roots in China with its ambitions for international growth. While the company focused on his professional contributions to their corporate governance, the announcement serves as a reflection of the close ties between major Chinese technology firms and prominent political figures in the region.

Tung’s tenure on the board coincided with a period of significant global expansion for Alibaba. The company’s public acknowledgment of his passing emphasizes the value they placed on his experience navigating complex geopolitical landscapes. No other major outlets have provided conflicting reports regarding his tenure or the nature of his relationship with the company, as the information is based on the official corporate statement released by Alibaba.