Best Place for Business: Countries and Specific Cities
“Where is the best place for a business?” This question is one of the most recurrent among entrepreneurs and at MG Economistes we have prepared a guide with all the information, statistics and characteristics about the best place for a business.
The following is an analysis of the best countries and the most outstanding cities to establish a prosperous business. We will focus on details and particularities of each nation that contribute to a favourable business environment.
What makes a place ideal for business?
A region, country or city is considered a reliable environment for business when it meets a number of economic, legal and social conditions.
Obviously, perfection is impossible to achieve in any field, but you will find countries and cities with ideal macro conditions for your business. Some of the central axes for setting up as a good business location:
- Access to international markets: Global connectivity and access to international markets are key.
- Quality infrastructure: First class infrastructure and services are always essential.
- Economic incentives: Attractive tax regimes and access to finance are crucial advantages.
- Supporting ecosystems: Cities with innovation hubs, accelerators and specialised talent.
- Legal and regulatory stability: Clear and efficient legal framework to protect investments
The influence of the company’s line of business
Beyond generalities, locations can be better or worse places to start a business, depending on the type of business.
There are countries with specific advantages, economic incentives or cutting-edge technology for certain sectors of the economy, such as the automotive sector or trade.
Precisely defining the business model and researching the market particularities of each country or city is vital to find a favourable location for the company.
MG Economistes‘ Accounting Consultancy and customised solutions to “understand the complexity of a constantly changing social environment” should be considered of value in this context.
Example of featured cities
Below is a list of the top three cities in the business world that tend to be the best places to start your business.
At the same time, we will give a brief description of their qualities to show how each one has its own particularities and exclusive benefits:
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- Singapore: Recognised for its administrative efficiency and pro-business approach.
- New York: A global financial epicentre with access to capital and countless opportunities.
- London: A leader in fintech and international trade, with a flexible and proactive regulatory approach.
The world’s best countries for business
Without further ado, it is time to mention the top countries for successful business start-ups around the world.
A tour of countries with clear benefits for starting a business project and enjoying the favourable qualities.
In the first instance, we will focus on the five European countries and then open up to the rest of the world.
Which are the best European countries for business?
Europe, if we are to conceptualise the entire region under a single definition, is a continent that is considered prosperous and a generous environment for business according to financial experts.
Each country has its particular advantages, special characteristics and regulatory framework that differentiate them from one another.
On a general scale, Europe provides opportunities for innovation, sustainable development, the technology sector and classical industry.
We would like to provide you with information on five interesting countries to start your business today:
Estonia and the digital avant-garde
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- Its e-Residency programme allows entrepreneurs to run businesses completely online, from anywhere in the world.
- With a favourable tax environment, companies can benefit from competitive corporate taxes and transparency in legal processes.
- Ideal for tech startups and businesses that value connectivity and automation.
Ireland: Home of the tech giants
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- Its corporate tax rate of 12.5%, one of the lowest in Europe, attracts large technology multinationals such as Google and Facebook.
- Dublin, the capital, is a dynamic hub for technology start-ups and has a highly skilled workforce thanks to its prestigious universities.
- Economic and political stability provides a secure and controlled environment for long-term business projects.
The Netherlands is the heart of Europe
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- The Netherlands combines its strategic location with a first-class infrastructure, ideal for logistics and international trade companies.
- Amsterdam, one of its most iconic cities, is known for its innovative and entrepreneur-friendly environment.
- Inclusive policies and economic stability make the country attractive to both startups and large corporations.
Germany: Industrial power and innovation
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- To be Europe’s largest economy, with cities like Berlin leading the way in technological entrepreneurship and creativity.
- A robust approach to research and development, supported by government programmes and European funds.
- Skilled workforce and optimal infrastructure.
Sweden and the combination of factors
- Focus on sustainability and international connections to facilitate trade with other countries in Europe and the world.
- Guaranteed economic stability and a high standard of living for entrepreneurs.
- Fiscal incentives for business and a transparent business environment.
5 countries outside Europe to invest in
To get a global perspective on the markets of different countries and regions to start and thrive with your business, here is a list of 5 top countries for businesses:
- Singapore
- Recognised for its economic stability, low tax rates and minimal bureaucracy. Its pro-business environment makes it a magnet for international startups.
- United States
- It offers access to one of the largest markets in the world.
- Cities such as New York and San Francisco are epicentres of innovation, technology and venture capital.
- Canada
- It stands out for its quality of life and inclusive policies for foreign entrepreneurs.
- Vancouver and Toronto are leading cities in technology and finance.
- Australia
- A country with political and economic stability, with cities like Sydney, which promote innovation.
- Its proximity to Asia makes it attractive for companies with a focus on emerging markets.
- United Arab Emirates
- Dubai is a global business hub with advanced infrastructure and duty-free economic zones.
- Ideal for business, technology and finance companies.
Top 10 countries for business according to Forbes
Country | Rank | GDP Growth | GDP per Capita | Trade Balance / GDP | Population | Corporate Tax Rate |
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United Kingdom | #1 | 1.7% | $39,700 | -3.8% | 65.1 M | 19% |
Sweden | #2 | 2.1% | $53,400 | 3.3% | 10 M | 20.6% |
Hong Kong | #3 | 3.8% | $46,200 | 4.3% | 7.2 M | 8.2-16.5% |
Netherlands | #4 | 2.9% | $48,200 | 10.5% | 17.2 M | 19-25.8% |
New Zealand | #5 | 3% | $42,900 | -2.7% | 4.5 M | 28% |
Canada | #6 | 3% | $45,000 | -2.9% | 35.9 M | 15% |
Denmark | #7 | 2.3% | $56,300 | 7.6% | 5.8 M | 22% |
Singapore | #8 | 3.6% | $57,700 | 18.8% | 6 M | 17% |
Australia | #9 | 2.2% | $53,800 | -2.6% | 23.5 M | 25% |
Switzerland | #10 | 1.7% | $80,200 | 9.8% | 8.3 M | 8.5-15% |
Ranking compiled by Forbes, the world’s most recognised media and publishing company specialising in business and finance.
The landscape in Spain: Where is the best place to start a business?
Spain is a country that offers, in general terms and according to specialised statistics, a high level of quality of life.
Although it is not directly linked to being an optimal country for business, a high quality of life is an extra incentive to invest in the place and start a business.
More precisely, despite not ranking among the best countries in Europe on key metrics and variables, Spain has a business-friendly environment.
In addition, consultancy services such as those of MG Economistes are an indispensable ally in navigating Spanish bureaucracy, from tax management to labour to legal compliance, ensuring that companies can operate efficiently
Three cities to invest in: Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia
The three most important cities in Spain are undisputed: Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.
In terms of population, quality of infrastructure, history and international recognition, these are the three places par excellence in Spain to develop a solid and successful business.
In these cities you will find multiple incentives and also ample markets to research, plan and invest in the best way.
Without being among the top choices worldwide, Spain is positioned thanks to Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia as a relevant entrepreneurial pole, even more so with recent initiatives to facilitate foreign investment and support technological innovation.
Madrid: Financial centre of the country
- Access to international markets: Madrid is a global hub connecting Europe with Latin America and Africa, thanks to its international airport Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas and its excellent rail connections.
- World-class infrastructure: The city offers modern business spaces, such as La Castellana and the Cuatro Torres business district, as well as institutions that foster business innovation.
- Home to major companies: Giants such as BBVA, Telefónica and Indra are based here, which strengthens the economy and creates opportunities for collaboration.
- Entrepreneurial ecosystem: With initiatives such as Madrid Emprende, the city supports startups through incubators and coworking spaces accessible to new entrepreneurs.
- Europe’s sixth-best city for business.
Barcelona: Innovation is the order of the day
- Global events: Barcelona hosts the Mobile World Congress, one of the world’s largest technology events, which attracts international investors and entrepreneurs.
- Technology hub: The city is known for its dynamic startup ecosystem, with accelerators such as Barcelona Activa and technology hubs such as 22@ Barcelona, an innovation district.
- Attracting international talent: Barcelona has a network of renowned universities and business schools, such as ESADE and IESE, which nurture a skilled workforce.
- Quality of life: Its Mediterranean climate, gastronomy and lifestyle make it a very attractive city for entrepreneurs and their families.
- Ideal business environment for technology and creative sectors.
Valencia: Low costs and high opportunities
- Competitive costs: Valencia offers lower living and operating costs compared to other European cities, which is ideal for startups looking to optimise their resources.
- Digital District: This local initiative seeks to consolidate Valencia as a European technology hub, attracting software, artificial intelligence and big data companies.
- Port infrastructure: Its port is one of the most important in the Mediterranean, facilitating international trade and logistics.
- Government support: The city offers specific programmes for entrepreneurs, such as grants and coworking spaces, which reinforce its attractiveness for tech and creative startups.
- Calm and pleasant pace of life.
Two other Spanish cities to highlight
We continue this timely assessment of the best Spanish cities to start your business with two more important sites for the region.
Based on the indexes and data to evaluate a good place to set up your business, such as quality of life, access to skilled labour or market demand, Pamplona and Seville cannot be left out of the ranking.
Seville, for example, has a staggering 120,000 registered companies at present. A figure which, moreover, is growing in percentage terms according to the registers. The city is emerging as a hub for start-ups.
On the other hand, Pamplona, the capital of Navarre, is another perfect alternative for entrepreneurs. Its geographical location gives it an advantage with easy accessibility to all regions.
Taxes paid by a company in Spain
Perhaps one of the most important reasons for entrepreneurs’ decisions is a country’s corporate tax rate.
In Spain, companies pay taxes at an average rate compared to other countries in Europe and the world.
MG Economistes‘ specialised Tax Consultancy will be key to comply with the country’s governmental requirements.
To return to the thread, Spain is governed by Corporate Income Tax (IS), which is an annual tax. As a general rule, the Corporate Income Tax is 25%. In turn, there are two special reduced rates of IS:
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- 15% for start-ups.
- 20% for tax-sheltered cooperatives.
Other taxes applied to companies in Spain:
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- VAT (Value Added Tax)
- Self-employed
- Municipal
- About Real Estate
- On Economic Activities
- Environmental
- Specials
For example, in the list of the five cities that we highlight to start your business and entrepreneurship in Spain, each city will have its own tax differentiation according to the municipal taxes and other legal frameworks that apply to the region.
Forget about any problems with the specialised advice of MG Economistes, accessible to clients from all over Spain.
Do you want to start your business in Spain? At MG Economistes we are here for you
After an extensive analysis of the best places, countries and cities to establish a successful and thriving business, we would like to draw one conclusion:
“Starting a successful business requires more than just a brilliant idea; the environment in which you decide to set up your business can make all the difference.”
In this line, having the best services and expert professionals is just as important as choosing wisely where to settle. That is why MG Ecnomistes is ready for you.Contact MG Economistes to simplify your legal, financial and labour responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions about the best place for business
What factors determine the best place to start a business?
Considerations such as access to international markets, tax incentives, supportive ecosystems, economic and regulatory stability, and quality of life are crucial to choosing the ideal location.
Which European countries are most recommended for entrepreneurs?
Countries such as Estonia, Ireland, the Netherlands, Germany and Spain stand out for their favourable policies, advanced infrastructure and innovation ecosystems.
What are the advantages of starting a business in Spain?
Spain offers a favourable environment with leading cities such as Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia, which combine modern infrastructure, tax incentives and an attractive lifestyle.
Which location offers the best international connections for global business?
Madrid, London and Singapore are renowned for their global connectivity, making them ideal hubs for companies with international reach.
How do startup ecosystems influence entrepreneurial success?
Innovation hubs with incubators, accelerators and access to venture capital facilitate the growth of start-ups. Cities such as Barcelona and Amsterdam are prime examples.
What benefits do emerging countries offer for new business?
Countries such as Lithuania, Portugal and Poland combine lower operating costs with access to skilled talent, attracting startups in technology and creative sectors.
