The exhibition area of China Import and Export Fair, or Canton Fair, in Guangzhou. [Photo/VCG]

The upcoming 133rd China Import and Export Fair, or Canton Fair, will boost both China's foreign trade and global economic recovery this year, said Wang Shouwen, vice-minister of commerce and China's international trade representative.

The fair will be held in Guangzhou, capital of South China's Guangdong province, from April 15 to May 5. After China optimized its COVID-19 prevention measures, domestic and global companies are now eligible and eager to participate in the fair onsite.

Starting with the spring session this year, the Canton Fair will fully resume offline activities, according to information released by the Ministry of Commerce.

The Canton Fair is an important window for China's opening-up and a major platform of foreign trade, serving as a critical channel for Chinese companies to explore the international market and enhance business ties with countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, Wang said.