HEFEI — A Uruguayan entrepreneur based in eastern China has pointed to deepening economic and cultural ties between China and Uruguay, as cooperation between the two countries broadens across multiple sectors.

Gabriel Martin, who operates a steakhouse in Wuhu City in Anhui Province, said bilateral engagement has grown significantly in recent years, reflecting stronger trade links and expanding opportunities for businesses.

Martin recently returned from a business trip accompanying a Uruguayan delegation to China, which he noted was larger and more diverse than previous visits. The group included representatives from beef-processing companies, dairy producers, software firms and even the Uruguayan Football Association.

“This shows that cooperation between the two countries is expanding into a wider range of sectors,” he said.

Martin first came to China in 2012 to study in Shanghai, inspired by the country’s rapid development. Recognising the potential to connect Uruguay’s high-quality beef industry with China’s vast consumer market, he gradually built a business spanning beef imports and hospitality.

Over the past decade, his operations have expanded steadily. In addition to running a restaurant in Wuhu — his wife’s hometown — he is also involved in a beef import business based in Zhengzhou.

China has remained Uruguay’s largest trading partner for years, and recent agreements between the two countries have further strengthened economic ties. In February, more than 10 cooperation documents were signed covering trade, investment and other areas.

Martin highlighted new opportunities emerging from these agreements, including China’s approval of bezoar imports from Uruguay, which he said would benefit ranchers and support traditional Chinese medicine production.

He also noted evolving consumer trends in China, with growing demand for higher-quality food products. His company plans to increase beef imports significantly, potentially reaching up to 20 containers per month.

Martin said China’s policy direction, including continued economic opening and trade facilitation, has made it increasingly attractive for foreign businesses. He cited improvements in logistics and the development of initiatives such as the Hainan Free Trade Port as key drivers of growth.

Beyond trade, Martin observed a narrowing cultural gap between the two countries, pointing to the rising popularity of Chinese films in Uruguay as an example of growing cultural exchange.

Despite the geographical distance, he said initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative have helped strengthen connectivity and mutual understanding.

“China has become my second home,” Martin said, expressing confidence that bilateral cooperation will continue to expand in the years ahead.