GLGI Expert Highlights the Growing Importance of Open AI Ecosystems and Digital Infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific
New York, July 24, 2026 — Winston Ma, Director of Strategic Partnerships for North America and the Middle East at the Global Leadership and Governance Institute (GLGI) and Adjunct Professor at NYU School of Law, was recently quoted by CNBC in its coverage of the
2026 APEC Digital and AI Ministerial Statement.
The CNBC article examined the significance of the ministerial statement and its support for more open and accessible artificial intelligence ecosystems across the Asia-Pacific region. The report also explored China’s growing role in open-source AI models, computing infrastructure, and the broader development of digital and technological capabilities.
In his comments, Ma discussed the strategic implications of the statement and the changing nature of global AI competition. He noted that the future of artificial intelligence development may depend not only on the performance of individual models, but also on the ability of economies to build integrated ecosystems combining open models, computing power, energy supply, cloud infrastructure, telecommunications networks, and real-world commercial applications.
This development reflects a broader shift from competition centered primarily on proprietary AI models toward competition based on complete technological and industrial ecosystems.
Open-source and open-weight AI models may help reduce barriers to adoption by allowing companies, researchers, and developers to customize technologies for local languages, industry requirements, and specific market conditions. For emerging economies and small and medium-sized enterprises, greater access to adaptable AI technologies could support innovation, productivity, and digital transformation.
At the same time, the successful deployment of AI at scale requires more than advanced algorithms. It also depends on reliable data centers, sufficient computing capacity, affordable energy, secure digital networks, skilled professionals, and supportive governance frameworks.
The 2026 APEC Digital and AI Ministerial Statement reflects a shared interest among participating economies in strengthening digital connectivity, promoting responsible innovation, building public trust, and expanding the benefits of AI across the region.
Through stronger regional cooperation, AI has the potential to create significant economic and social value in areas including cross-border trade, education, healthcare, public services, sustainable development, and the digital transformation of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Winston Ma’s inclusion in CNBC’s coverage demonstrates his continuing influence in discussions concerning artificial intelligence, the digital economy, global investment, technology policy, and cross-border innovation. It also reflects GLGI’s commitment to bringing together experts from government, academia, business, and international institutions to address the most important governance and leadership issues shaping the global economy.
GLGI will continue to promote dialogue on responsible AI, digital transformation, international technology cooperation, and inclusive economic growth. Through executive education, policy exchange, and cross-border partnerships, the Institute seeks to help leaders and organizations better understand emerging technologies and respond effectively to the opportunities and challenges of the AI era.
About Winston Ma
Winston Ma serves as GLGI’s Director of Strategic Partnerships for North America and the Middle East and as an Adjunct Professor at NYU School of Law. His work focuses on artificial intelligence, the digital economy, global investment, technology innovation, and cross-border capital markets. He is frequently invited to provide analysis to international media and professional institutions on developments in China and the global technology sector.
About GLGI
The Global Leadership and Governance Institute is dedicated to connecting leaders from government, academia, business, and international organizations. Through global executive education, leadership exchanges, international business support, and cross-regional cooperation initiatives, GLGI helps companies and institutions strengthen their global leadership and governance capabilities and expand international partnerships.
CNBC Publication Date: July 24, 2026
Topic: China, Open-Source AI, and the 2026 APEC Digital and AI Ministerial Statement
CNBC Article: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/24/china-ai-open-source-apec.html