KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) expects over 400 foreign companies from more than 50 countries to participate in its Malaysia International Halal Showcase 2012's (MIHAS 2012) business matching sessions, the Incoming Buying Mission (IBM).

Matrade Trade Promotion and Services Division director Mohd Aminuddin Sham Tajuddin said the top five foreign buyers will be from China, Indonesia, Jordan, the United Kingdom and Taiwan.

"There will be a variety of visitors to the IBM, comprising key decision makers, from manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, importers, exporters, retailers, suppliers and others along the value chain," he told Bernama in an interview recently.

Mohd Aminuddin said the IBM would add value to the participants, especially export-ready companies.

"The foreign buyers will be here, resulting in a more cost-effective and cost-efficient method for local companies to deal with them," he added.

Mohd Aminuddin expressed confidence that this would benefit local small-and- medium enterprises (SMEs), as it would help them to meet serious buyers.

He said Matrade's offices overseas have been attracting international visitors to MIHAS.

In early 2011, Matrade introduced the four-day MIHAS event as a trade fair, with the first three days for business interactions and an open day for the public on the last.

"That makes it a more focused business interaction for the exhibitors and quality time for the public on the last day," he added.

-- BERNAMA