Doing Business in Malaysia VS Puerto Rico – A Comparison
Entrepreneurs evaluating Southeast Asia and the Americas often weigh Malaysia against Puerto Rico for business expansion. Starting a business in Malaysia is praised for its affordability, digital registration, and regional access to ASEAN markets. Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, offers tax incentives for American investors and access to U.S. legal protections. This article compares the two destinations to help investors decide which aligns best with their business goals.
Key Comparison Points
Business Environment
- Malaysia: Malaysia offers a stable political climate, transparent legal framework, and consistent support from authorities like the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).
- Puerto Rico: As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico follows U.S. federal laws and offers legal certainty, but ongoing economic challenges and political debates on statehood may affect investor perception.
Taxation
- Malaysia: Malaysia imposes a 24% corporate tax rate with no capital gains tax. Businesses often work with company incorporation services to benefit from tax incentives and compliance support.
- Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico offers attractive tax incentives, including Act 60 for export services and individual investors, but federal tax complexities still apply for U.S.-based businesses.
Ease of Company Incorporation
- Malaysia: The company incorporation in Malaysia process is fast, digital, and supported by government initiatives to simplify setup for both locals and foreigners.
- Puerto Rico: Incorporation follows U.S. territory protocols, requiring registration with the Department of State and other local compliance processes.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
- Malaysia: Malaysia’s business environment is affordable, especially for startups. Read this guide to setting up businesses in Malaysia for full cost insights.
- Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico’s living and business costs are lower than mainland U.S., but still higher than Malaysia in most categories such as office rental and utilities.
Access to Markets
- Malaysia: Strategically located in ASEAN, Malaysia is part of trade deals like RCEP and CPTPP. Companies using our services gain access to over 600 million consumers in the region.
- Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico offers access to U.S. markets and operates under U.S. jurisdiction, making it a strategic base for North American and Caribbean trade.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference.
| Factor |
Malaysia |
Puerto Rico |
| Business Environment |
Stable governance, transparent regulations |
Follows U.S. laws, but affected by local debt and politics |
| Corporate Tax Rate |
24% |
4% (Act 60 export service rate); federal tax complexities for U.S. entities |
| Capital Gains Tax |
No |
Yes (with certain exemptions under Act 60) |
| Ease of Incorporation |
Fully digital, efficient for locals and foreigners |
Standard U.S. territory procedures, less automated |
| Business Costs |
Lower costs for office, labor, and infrastructure |
Moderate; higher than Malaysia but lower than mainland U.S. |
| Market Access |
ASEAN, RCEP, and CPTPP reach |
Access to U.S. and Caribbean markets |

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.
Ready to Expand into Malaysia? Choose 3E Accounting Today!
Stay Secure, Stay Successful With 3E Accounting Services
Contact Us Now
Frequently Asked Questions
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.