Doing Business in Malaysia VS Cape Verde – A Comparison
For entrepreneurs and investors planning to expand into new markets, choosing between Malaysia and Cape Verde can be a tough call. Each country offers distinct advantages depending on your business goals. Malaysia is known for its affordability, high quality of life, and supportive ecosystem for small and mid-sized businesses. Cape Verde, a rising destination in West Africa, is gaining attention for its strategic Atlantic location and simplified investment procedures. This article outlines the key differences to help you decide where to invest your resources.
Key Comparison Points
Business Environment
- Malaysia: Malaysia provides a politically stable environment, strong legal infrastructure, and government support through SME grants and digital adoption programs.
- Cape Verde: Cape Verde offers a peaceful political climate and incentives for tourism and green energy sectors, but its legal and regulatory systems are still developing.
Taxation
- Malaysia: Malaysia has a flat corporate tax rate of 24% and does not impose capital gains tax on most business transactions.
- Cape Verde: Cape Verde imposes a corporate tax rate of 22%, with added benefits for companies operating in free zones and tourism-related industries.
Ease of Company Incorporation
- Malaysia: Malaysia’s digital MyCoID system allows fast and foreign-friendly incorporation. Full ownership is permitted in many sectors. Learn more about company incorporation in Malaysia.
- Cape Verde: Company registration is improving with initiatives like “One-Stop Shops,” but many processes are still paper-based and require in-person verification.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
- Malaysia: Office space, labor, and daily living costs are relatively low, especially in secondary cities. This makes Malaysia ideal for scaling businesses with lean budgets.
- Cape Verde: While basic living costs are low, imported goods and infrastructure-related services can be expensive due to the country’s island-based logistics.
Access to Markets
- Malaysia: Malaysia connects investors to ASEAN and Asia-Pacific markets via major trade agreements like RCEP and CPTPP, giving access to over 600 million consumers.
- Cape Verde: Cape Verde benefits from EU trade privileges and proximity to West African and European markets, but lacks the logistics infrastructure for rapid export growth.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference.
| Factor | Malaysia | Cape Verde |
| Business Environment | Stable, digitally supportive, and investor-friendly | Peaceful and improving, but less structured |
| Corporate Tax Rate | 24% | 22% |
| Capital Gains Tax | Not applicable (in most cases) | Applies based on specific transaction types |
| Ease of Incorporation | Fast, digital, foreigner-friendly | Simple structure, but mostly offline |
| Business Costs | Low rent, labor, and utilities | Low base costs, higher logistics/imports |
| Market Access | Strong ASEAN + global trade links | EU-focused with limited logistics reach |

Benefits of Choosing 3E Accounting
Selecting the right partner is crucial when it comes to starting a business in Malaysia. At 3E Accounting, we offer a comprehensive range of solutions designed to simplify the entire process of company incorporation in Malaysia. From ensuring compliance with local regulations to providing expert guidance tailored to your specific needs, we make the journey seamless.
For entrepreneurs looking to navigate Malaysia company registration or explore company setup in Malaysia, our team provides unmatched expertise and support. Additionally, our company incorporation services are tailored to help you succeed in the competitive business environment.
With a deep understanding of the region’s business landscape, we also provide resources for setting up businesses in Malaysia, ensuring that every step is clear and efficient. Whether you need assistance with corporate secretarial or company secretary services, we are here to help.
To explore our services or discuss your business needs, contact 3E Accounting. With our strong presence in Malaysia and a proven track record, we are your trusted partner for success in Asia.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Malaysia applies a 24% corporate tax rate with no capital gains tax in most cases, while Cape Verde has a 22% rate and taxes capital gains in some scenarios.
Abigail Yu oversees executive leadership at 3E Accounting Group, leading operations, IT solutions, public relations, and digital marketing to drive business success. She holds an honors degree in Communication and New Media from the National University of Singapore and is highly skilled in crisis management, financial communication, and corporate communications.