Doing Business in Malaysia VS North Macedonia – A Comparison
Entrepreneurs looking to expand into Southeast Asia or Eastern Europe often find themselves weighing Malaysia against North Macedonia. Each location has its strengths. Malaysia is recognized for its competitive business environment, strong infrastructure, and cost-efficient setup for small to mid-sized businesses. North Macedonia, while smaller in scale, offers an open market for foreign investment and access to the European region. This article compares both markets across key factors to help you decide which destination aligns with your business objectives.
Malaysia: Malaysia offers a stable political climate, clear legal systems, and strong foreign investor support. Businesses can work with 3E Accounting to navigate local regulations effectively.
North Macedonia: North Macedonia promotes foreign investment through free economic zones and government incentives, though transparency and enforcement remain ongoing concerns.
Taxation
Malaysia: Malaysia imposes a 24% corporate tax rate and provides tax incentives for high-impact sectors.
North Macedonia: North Macedonia offers a flat corporate tax rate of 10%, one of the lowest in Europe, but additional fees may apply based on sector.
North Macedonia: Company formation is straightforward and low-cost, typically completed within a few days with physical presence required.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
Malaysia: Malaysia offers affordable operations, modern infrastructure, and access to skilled labor. See this guide to setting up businesses in Malaysia for a full overview.
North Macedonia: Operational costs are relatively low, but businesses may face limited access to talent and technology in smaller cities.
Access to Markets
Malaysia: Malaysia offers strong trade links across Asia through ASEAN and RCEP. Explore our services for regional setup options.
North Macedonia: Positioned as a gateway to the EU, North Macedonia offers duty-free access to European markets via trade agreements, despite not yet being an EU member.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference.
Factor
Malaysia
North Macedonia
Business Environment
Stable, transparent, investor-friendly
Pro-investment policies with incentives
Corporate Tax Rate
24%
10%
Capital Gains Tax
Applicable in specific cases
Generally exempt under certain conditions
Ease of Incorporation
Fully online via SSM
Quick and low-cost with in-person steps
Business Costs
Moderate with good infrastructure
Low but limited urban business support
Market Access
Excellent regional access through ASEAN
Duty-free EU access through trade pacts
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 is ideal for small businesses due to its digital infrastructure and cost-efficiency. You can refer to this guide to starting a business in Malaysia to learn more.
Malaysia has a 24% corporate tax rate with incentives, while North Macedonia offers a flat 10% rate. See this Malaysia company registration guide for details on exemptions.
Malaysia provides quick online registration via SSM and support from company incorporation services. North Macedonia is fast but requires physical presence.
Malaysia offers moderate costs and strong infrastructure, while North Macedonia is cheaper but may lack depth in urban business services.
Malaysia offers wider access across Asia via ASEAN and RCEP. Learn more through our services for regional expansion support.
3E Accounting provides expert incorporation and compliance services for startups and foreign investors.
You can easily contact 3E Accounting to get personalised support for business registration 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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To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
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