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Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
The Netherlands and the UK among the simplest countries for doing business in Europe, says GBCI 2025
LONDON, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Greece, France, Italy and Turkey are the most complex jurisdictions to do business in the region, according to the 2025 Global Business Complexity Index (GBCI) recently launched by TMF Group. The GBCI studies over 250 indicators of complexity in 79 jurisdictions that represent 94% of the world's GDP. The report has consistently shown that countries in Southern Europe and Latin America are the most complex for doing business, and that continues to be true in 2025. At the other end of the scale, the least complex places to do business tend to be in Northern Europe and several of the offshore investment hubs. The report notes that complexity is relatively straightforward to navigate, at least for larger multinationals able to absorb the cost of complying with local rules. What is much harder to deal with is uncertainty. US-led sanctions, lockdowns in China and the Suez blockage had already begun a shift towards more diversified supply chains, with companies seeking to reduce their reliance on single countries for sourcing, building or selling their products. A part of that solution noted in last year's report was the rise of connector economies like Mexico and Vietnam, bridging trade between China and the US in the so-called 'China plus one' strategy. That strategy has now fallen foul of US tariffs, set to reflect a country's trade surplus in goods with the US and so punishing countries with connector status. Even if tariffs abate, their launch and rapid shifts point to an underlying risk for companies trading from countries with a high US trade surplus. The report notes a drop in confidence in stability, with the majority of jurisdictions (55%) reporting prioritisation of trade corridor diversity. It identifies a number of countries that might now emerge as the new connectors — with low levels of complexity pointing to business-friendly rules, a low US trade surplus pointing to less likely retaliatory action, a reasonable size and sophistication of economy to support a variety of activity at scale and absorb investment without tipping heavily into US trade surplus, and a multipolar stance that should allow them to trade across different blocs. Those countries include the UK and the Netherlands in Europe, Egypt and Saudi Arabia in the Middle East, and Australia and Hong Kong in Asia Pacific. TMF Group's CEO Mark Weil, said: 'The real challenge for businesses today isn't complexity, it's uncertainty. With rising trade tensions, a shifting geopolitical landscape and economic unpredictability, companies are forced to make decisions in an environment that can change overnight. Tariffs are just the latest signal of the risks of supply chain concentration. Diversification is a necessity in this context. The good news is that businesses can offset some of the complexities of diversification by reducing their own internal intricacies. Our benchmarking reveals stark differences in structural complexity among similar firms. We see an opportunity here: by simplifying their structures and support models — for example, by having fewer legal entities and a few trusted global partners — businesses can gain flexibility.' Top and bottom ten (1= most complex, 79= least complex) 1. Greece 79. Cayman Islands 2. France 78. Denmark 3. Mexico 77. New Zealand 4. Turkey 76. Hong Kong, SAR 5. Colombia 75. Jersey 6. Brazil 74. Netherlands 7. Italy 73. Jamaica 8. Bolivia 72. British Virgin Islands 9. Kazakhstan 71. Curaçao 10. China 70. Czech Republic Media ContactsMarina Llibre Martí beim Abrufen der Daten Melden Sie sich an, um Ihr Portfolio aufzurufen. Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten
Malay Mail
3 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
GBCI 2025: Hong Kong, New Zealand still easiest for business; China enters top 10 most complex in global rankings
KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — Hong Kong and New Zealand remain among the world's least complex jurisdictions for doing business, according to the latest Global Business Complexity Index (GBCI) released by TMF Group. The index, which analyses the business environment in 79 jurisdictions covering 94 per cent of global gross domestic product (GDP), ranks jurisdictions based on over 250 indicators of business complexity. Jurisdiction ranked first is deemed the most complex, while the 79th is the least. TMF Group Head of Asia Pacific (APAC), Shagun Kumar in a statement said regional decision-makers are intensifying efforts to ease business procedures. 'Efforts to reduce unnecessary burdens are helping unlock economic growth across APAC. We expect businesses to adapt and leverage the region's potential as a vital part of their global strategies,' he said. Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) retained its position as the fourth easiest jurisdiction globally for the second consecutive year. TMF Group said the territory continues to attract international businesses with its straightforward and low tax regime. New Zealand also remained within the top 10 easiest jurisdictions, supported by the government's proactive stance on foreign investment and efficient administrative processes. Meanwhile, India was ranked 18th in terms of complexity, driven largely by a wave of regulatory amendments aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability. While these changes are expected to yield long-term benefits, they have increased the compliance burden on businesses. Japan saw an improvement in its ranking, moving from 38th to 43rd. The country's business environment has become less complex, aided by simplification efforts and increased availability of English-language support for international financial firms. Singapore ranked 48th, maintaining its position as a resilient and technologically advanced trade hub. TMF Group cited the city-state's continued investment in infrastructure as a key factor behind its attractiveness to global businesses. China's Mainland, however, entered the top 10 most complex jurisdictions, ranking 10th this year. The report attributed this to frequent regulatory changes and regional disparities, although the Chinese government continues to provide incentives to boost investment and trade logistics. The top five most complex jurisdictions are Greece, France, Mexico, Turkey and Colombia. At the other end of the spectrum, the Cayman Islands, Denmark and New Zealand are the three least complex jurisdictions, followed by Hong Kong SAR and Jersey. — Bernama
The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
GBCI 2025: Hong Kong, NZ among easiest for business while China rises in complexity
Hong Kong city skyline. REUTERS/Tyrone Siu KUALA LUMPUR: Hong Kong and New Zealand remain among the world's least complex jurisdictions for doing business, according to the latest Global Business Complexity Index (GBCI) released by TMF Group. The index, which analyses the business environment in 79 jurisdictions covering 94 per cent of global gross domestic product (GDP), ranks jurisdictions based on over 250 indicators of business complexity. Jurisdiction ranked first is deemed the most complex, while the 79th is the least. TMF Group Head of Asia Pacific (APAC), Shagun Kumar in a statement said regional decision-makers are intensifying efforts to ease business procedures. "Efforts to reduce unnecessary burdens are helping unlock economic growth across APAC. We expect businesses to adapt and leverage the region's potential as a vital part of their global strategies,' he said. Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) retained its position as the fourth easiest jurisdiction globally for the second consecutive year. TMF Group said the territory continues to attract international businesses with its straightforward and low tax regime. New Zealand also remained within the top 10 easiest jurisdictions, supported by the government's proactive stance on foreign investment and efficient administrative processes. Meanwhile, India was ranked 18th in terms of complexity, driven largely by a wave of regulatory amendments aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability. While these changes are expected to yield long-term benefits, they have increased the compliance burden on businesses. Japan saw an improvement in its ranking, moving from 38th to 43rd. The country's business environment has become less complex, aided by simplification efforts and increased availability of English-language support for international financial firms. Singapore ranked 48th, maintaining its position as a resilient and technologically advanced trade hub. TMF Group cited the city-state's continued investment in infrastructure as a key factor behind its attractiveness to global businesses. China's Mainland, however, entered the top 10 most complex jurisdictions, ranking 10th this year. The report attributed this to frequent regulatory changes and regional disparities, although the Chinese government continues to provide incentives to boost investment and trade logistics. The top five most complex jurisdictions are Greece, France, Mexico, Turkey and Colombia. At the other end of the spectrum, the Cayman Islands, Denmark and New Zealand are the three least complex jurisdictions, followed by Hong Kong SAR and Jersey. - Bernama
Business Upturn
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Upturn
Egypt and Saudi Arabia are the easiest countries for doing business in the Middle East, says GBCI 2025
LONDON, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Middle East is positioned as a mid-complexity region for doing business in the Global Business Complexity Index (GBCI) recently launched by TMF Group. The report ranks 79 jurisdictions, accounting for 94% of the world's GDP, based on their business complexity, with 1 being the most complex and 79 the least complex. Within the Middle East, Egypt is ranked 37th globally, followed closely by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at 38th, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at 39th and Qatar at 44th. Egypt has decreased in complexity from last year's position of 28th, mainly due to several strategic efforts and developments. For example, the country's adoption of diverse logistic solutions and strengthening of trade corridors has played a pivotal role in mitigating economic pressures and geopolitical risks. The establishment of integrated logistics corridors and free zones, coupled with incentives like simplified customs procedures, has also enhanced accessibility for foreign businesses. Saudi Arabia has also improved its position, ranking 38th this year (one point less complex than last year), with resilience amid geopolitical disruptions and Vision 2030 initiatives being highlighted as key drivers of the ease of complexity. The country's strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil dependency continues at the forefront, as the Kingdom invests in trade infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, enhancing supply chain resilience. In addition, under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is striving to reduce its vulnerability to geopolitical threats. Parallelly, investments in infrastructure aim to establish the Kingdom as a global logistics hub. The UAE, ranking 39th this year, continues to position itself as a resilient hub amid global geopolitical disruptions. Strict regulations in place aim to ensure operations are compliant and secure, and contribute to the UAE being seen as a 'safe haven' for a diverse range of sectors. These regulations help mitigate risks and provide stability for businesses, fostering confidence among investors and enterprises. With multiple entry points and robust infrastructure, the UAE offers reliable trade corridors. With a slight increase in its complexity, Qatar is ranked 44th (last year, it ranked 48th). The geopolitical landscape remains volatile, with Qatar being involved in multiple peace talks, which underscores regional unpredictability and contributes to the heightened sense of uncertainty in the business environment. Additionally, the labour market faces challenges such as increased staff turnover and wage inflation, impacting cost efficiency. Achin Malik, TMF Group's Middle East, India and Africa Market Head, commented: 'Complexity is no longer the biggest challenge for business worldwide: uncertainty is. At a time of great instability in global trade and rising geopolitical tensions, the Middle East is increasingly strengthening its trade corridors — and exploring new ones. This positions countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar as resilient hubs for businesses amid geopolitical and natural disruptions, in a context of increased unpredictability.' Global top and bottom ten (1= most complex, 79= least complex) 1. Greece 79. Cayman Islands 2. France 78. Denmark 3. Mexico 77. New Zealand 4. Turkey 76. Hong Kong, SAR 5. Colombia 75. Jersey 6. Brazil 74. Netherlands 7. Italy 73. Jamaica 8. Bolivia 72. British Virgin Islands 9. Kazakhstan 71. Curaçao 10. China 70. Czech Republic Media Contacts TMF Group Marina Llibre Martín, Global PR Manager [email protected] Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Egypt and Saudi Arabia are the easiest countries for doing business in the Middle East, says GBCI 2025
LONDON, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Middle East is positioned as a mid-complexity region for doing business in the Global Business Complexity Index (GBCI) recently launched by TMF Group. The report ranks 79 jurisdictions, accounting for 94% of the world's GDP, based on their business complexity, with 1 being the most complex and 79 the least complex. Within the Middle East, Egypt is ranked 37th globally, followed closely by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at 38th, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at 39th and Qatar at 44th. Egypt has decreased in complexity from last year's position of 28th, mainly due to several strategic efforts and developments. For example, the country's adoption of diverse logistic solutions and strengthening of trade corridors has played a pivotal role in mitigating economic pressures and geopolitical risks. The establishment of integrated logistics corridors and free zones, coupled with incentives like simplified customs procedures, has also enhanced accessibility for foreign businesses. Saudi Arabia has also improved its position, ranking 38th this year (one point less complex than last year), with resilience amid geopolitical disruptions and Vision 2030 initiatives being highlighted as key drivers of the ease of complexity. The country's strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil dependency continues at the forefront, as the Kingdom invests in trade infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, enhancing supply chain resilience. In addition, under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is striving to reduce its vulnerability to geopolitical threats. Parallelly, investments in infrastructure aim to establish the Kingdom as a global logistics hub. The UAE, ranking 39th this year, continues to position itself as a resilient hub amid global geopolitical disruptions. Strict regulations in place aim to ensure operations are compliant and secure, and contribute to the UAE being seen as a 'safe haven' for a diverse range of sectors. These regulations help mitigate risks and provide stability for businesses, fostering confidence among investors and enterprises. With multiple entry points and robust infrastructure, the UAE offers reliable trade corridors. With a slight increase in its complexity, Qatar is ranked 44th (last year, it ranked 48th). The geopolitical landscape remains volatile, with Qatar being involved in multiple peace talks, which underscores regional unpredictability and contributes to the heightened sense of uncertainty in the business environment. Additionally, the labour market faces challenges such as increased staff turnover and wage inflation, impacting cost efficiency. Achin Malik, TMF Group's Middle East, India and Africa Market Head, commented: 'Complexity is no longer the biggest challenge for business worldwide: uncertainty is. At a time of great instability in global trade and rising geopolitical tensions, the Middle East is increasingly strengthening its trade corridors — and exploring new ones. This positions countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar as resilient hubs for businesses amid geopolitical and natural disruptions, in a context of increased unpredictability.' Global top and bottom ten (1= most complex, 79= least complex) 1. Greece 79. Cayman Islands 2. France 78. Denmark 3. Mexico 77. New Zealand 4. Turkey 76. Hong Kong, SAR 5. Colombia 75. Jersey 6. Brazil 74. Netherlands 7. Italy 73. Jamaica 8. Bolivia 72. British Virgin Islands 9. Kazakhstan 71. Curaçao 10. China 70. Czech Republic Media Contacts TMF Group Marina Llibre Martín, Global PR in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
