Portal fibroblasts (PFs) are implicated in the pathogenesis of cholestatic fibrosis. Proliferation and activation of PFs is mediated by the crosstalk between immune cells and cholangiocytes. Experts discuss pathways of PF activation; composition and heterogeneity of PFs; functional roles of PFs and hepatic stellate cells; and potential strategies for the development of novel antifibrotic therapies for the treatment of cholestatic fibrosis.