Doing Business in Malaysia VS Greece – A Comparison
Entrepreneurs and global investors often compare starting a business in Malaysia and Greece as part of their international expansion strategy. Malaysia attracts businesses with its affordable setup costs, business-friendly regulations, and access to ASEAN markets. Greece, located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, has been improving its ease of doing business and serves as a gateway to the EU and Balkan regions.
Malaysia: Malaysia provides a stable and investment-friendly environment with government incentives for company incorporation in Malaysia.
Greece: Greece continues to implement structural reforms to improve its business climate. While progress has been made, businesses may still face bureaucratic hurdles during setup and operation.
Taxation
Malaysia: The corporate tax rate is 24%, with incentives for eligible industries through company incorporation services.
Greece: Greece has a corporate tax rate of 22%. Additional local and solidarity taxes may apply, depending on income brackets and activity sectors.
Greece: Businesses in Greece register through the General Commercial Registry (GEMI). The process typically involves notarized documentation and in-person verification, which can lengthen the timeline.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
Malaysia:Setting up businesses in Malaysia is cost-effective, especially for startups and SMEs, thanks to lower rents, utilities, and labor costs.
Greece: Greece has a higher cost of living, particularly in Athens, but operational costs can be competitive in regional cities. Sectors like tourism and shipping are strong contributors to its economy.
Access to Markets
Malaysia: Malaysia is part of ASEAN and benefits from international trade agreements like RCEP and CPTPP. Companies enjoy market access across Asia-Pacific, supported by 3E Accounting.
Greece: Greece offers businesses access to the EU single market and benefits from free trade agreements under the European Union framework. Its strategic location also links it to North Africa and the Middle East.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference.
Factor
Malaysia
Greece
Business Environment
Stable and pro-investment with government support
Improving regulatory structure; some red tape remains
Corporate Tax Rate
24%
22%
Capital Gains Tax
Applies in most cases
Applies based on asset type and income
Ease of Incorporation
Fast, digital via SSM
Slower process via GEMI, often requires notarization
Business Costs
Low cost of operations
Moderate to high, depending on sector and location
Market Access
ASEAN, RCEP, CPTPP
European Union, Balkans, Middle East
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 a faster and more digitized process for starting a business in Malaysia, while Greece requires notarized documents and multiple local filings.
Company incorporation in Malaysia is streamlined via SSM, while Greece uses the General Commercial Registry (GEMI) and often requires in-person verification and notarized paperwork.
Setting up businesses in Malaysia generally costs less, especially for SMEs, while Greece may offer sector-specific advantages in tourism and shipping.
Yes. It is mandatory to appoint a licensed secretary for all Sdn Bhd companies. You can engage company secretary services from 3E Accounting.
You can contact 3E Accounting directly to schedule a consultation and receive tailored advice on 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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