Doing Business in Malaysia VS Finland – A Comparison
Entrepreneurs and investors often find themselves choosing between starting a business in Malaysia or Finland. Both countries offer distinct advantages. Malaysia is recognized for its cost-effective operations, growing digital infrastructure, and access to Asian markets. Finland, on the other hand, is known for its innovation-driven economy, strong rule of law, and integration with the European Union.
Malaysia: Malaysia provides a stable political and regulatory environment that supports company incorporation in Malaysia and foreign direct investment.
Finland: Finland is among the most transparent and least corrupt countries globally, with reliable institutions and a robust legal system for business protection.
Taxation
Malaysia: Corporate tax is 24%, with incentives for pioneer status companies and small enterprises. Tax support is also offered through approved company incorporation services.
Finland: Finland has a corporate tax rate of 20%, and capital gains are taxed as part of overall corporate profits. Personal taxes are relatively high compared to global averages.
Finland: Finland allows company registration online through the Finnish Patent and Registration Office (PRH), with strong integration into e-government platforms.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
Malaysia: Malaysia offers low operational and living costs, which makes setting up businesses in Malaysia appealing to entrepreneurs and startups.
Finland: Finland has higher labor costs and living expenses, but offers excellent public infrastructure, education, and work-life balance.
Access to Markets
Malaysia: Malaysia provides access to the ASEAN market and global trade agreements like RCEP and CPTPP, with professional support from 3E Accounting.
Finland: Finland gives businesses access to the European single market and benefits from EU trade agreements and regulatory standards.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference.
Factor
Malaysia
Finland
Business Environment
Stable and government-backed business support
Highly transparent and innovation-oriented
Corporate Tax Rate
24%
20%
Capital Gains Tax
Applies in most cases
Included in corporate profits
Ease of Incorporation
Fast and online via SSM
Online through PRH
Business Costs
Lower operational and staffing expenses
Higher wages and cost of living
Market Access
ASEAN, RCEP, CPTPP
European Union, Nordic countries
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.
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.
Ready to Expand into Malaysia? Choose 3E Accounting Today!
Stay Secure, Stay Successful With 3E Accounting Services
Malaysia offers lower costs and greater access to Asian markets, making starting a business in Malaysia ideal for cost-conscious startups. Finland is better suited for digital innovation and EU-focused ventures.
The Malaysia company registration process requires a local address, a minimum of one director, and digital registration with SSM.
Company incorporation in Malaysia is fast and digital through SSM, while Finland uses PRH and integrates fully with e-government services, including e-signature systems.
Absolutely. Setting up businesses in Malaysia is significantly cheaper than in Finland, especially in terms of office rental, staffing, and administrative fees.
Yes. Every Malaysian company must appoint a licensed secretary within 30 days of incorporation. You can engage company secretary services from 3E Accounting.
You can contact 3E Accounting directly to schedule a consultation and begin your business incorporation in Malaysia.
Abigail Yu
Author
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.
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