The eight-time All-Star has become active in Chinese politics, becoming a member of an advisory body to Shanghai's legislature, The Associated Press reports.
Yao, 31, is the youngest member of the committee, which does not have any real power but can make suggestions to the government.
In addition to entering the political arena, Yao has set up a wine business and is a student at Jiaotong University in his hometown of Shanghai, according to the AP.
Yao played eight NBA seasons, averaging 19 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. The 7-foot-6 center retired in July with a series of foot, ankle and knee injuries that hobbled him the last five seasons of his career.
