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.
Key Comparison Points
Business Environment
- 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.
Ease of Company Incorporation
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.
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 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.
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.