LISBON, Sept. 1 (Xinhua) -- A promotional conference for the 138th edition of the China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, was held here on Monday, bringing together about 100 participants from political, business and media circles of both China and Portugal.

The Canton Fair has served as an important platform for economic and trade cooperation between the two countries, said Li Yong, economic and commercial counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Portugal. He expressed hope that more Portuguese enterprises will establish long-term partnerships with Chinese companies.

Situ Yi, head of the Canton Fair promotion team, briefed the audience on preparations for the event. He encouraged Portuguese companies to expand their business presence and benefit from China's development opportunities.

Pedro Cunha, CEO of JOINCO, a major Portuguese trading company, and a representative of Canton Fair buyers, said that over the years of cooperation, he has come to view the fair not merely as an exhibition space, but as an ecosystem of collaboration, innovation, and global trust-building.

He highlighted three specific areas where Portuguese companies can benefit directly via the fair: sustainable development and green innovation, agriculture and tourism, and technology and digitalization.

Fernando Machado, general manager of Portugal's Battery Cluster association, praised the fair's role in promoting cooperation and trade between the two countries, particularly in the new energy sector.

Established in 1957, the Canton Fair is held every spring and autumn in Guangzhou, China. The 138th Canton Fair is scheduled to take place from October to November. ■