Doing Business in India VS Malta – A Comparison
Choosing the ideal business destination is a common challenge faced by entrepreneurs and investors. India and Malta, both offering unique advantages, are often at the center of this debate. While India is known for its competitive landscape, high quality of life, and lower costs for setting up smaller businesses, Malta stands out for its strategic location in Europe and favorable tax regime. This article delves into the key factors to help you make an informed decision.
Key Comparison Points
Business Environment
- India: India offers a dynamic business environment with increasing government support through initiatives like Make in India.
- Malta: Malta boasts a stable political climate and a robust legal framework, making it a reliable business hub in Europe.
Taxation
- India: Corporate tax rates in India are 22% (15% for new manufacturing companies), with several tax incentives for startups.
- Malta: Malta offers a corporate tax rate of 35%, but businesses can benefit from significant refunds, effectively reducing the tax burden.
Ease of Company Incorporation
- India: India has streamlined its incorporation process with digital infrastructure and government initiatives to reduce regulatory hurdles.
- Malta: Malta provides a straightforward incorporation process, with a focus on digital company registration and minimal bureaucracy.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
- India: India offers low operational costs, affordable office spaces, and a comparatively lower cost of living.
- Malta: Malta has higher operational costs and living expenses, reflective of its European standards.
Access to Markets
- India: India provides access to a massive domestic market and growing global connectivity through trade agreements.
- Malta: Malta serves as a gateway to European markets, with strong trade ties and proximity to major EU countries.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference.
Factor |
India |
Malta |
Business Environment |
Dynamic, supported by initiatives like Make in India |
Stable political climate and robust legal framework |
Corporate Tax Rate |
22% (15% for new manufacturing companies) |
35% with significant refunds |
Capital Gains Tax |
Varies based on type and duration |
Favorable rates for businesses |
Ease of Incorporation |
Streamlined, digital infrastructure |
Straightforward, minimal bureaucracy |
Business Costs |
Low operational and living costs |
Higher operational and living costs |
Market Access |
Massive domestic market, growing global trade |
Gateway to European markets |

Benefits of Choosing 3E Accounting
When navigating the complexities of doing business in India or Malta, partnering with a reliable corporate service provider like 3E Accounting can make all the difference. With expertise in starting a business in India, a step-by-step guide to India company registration, and India company incorporation, 3E Accounting ensures a seamless setup process tailored to your needs. For company setup or any other assistance, feel free to contact us. Choose 3E Accounting for a hassle-free experience and focus on growing your business with confidence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
India offers a dynamic business environment supported by government initiatives such as starting a business in India. Low operational costs, access to a large domestic market, and strong government support make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs.
The India company registration process is streamlined with digital infrastructure and reduced bureaucracy, whereas Malta also offers a simple yet traditionally paper-based process.
India has a lower base corporate tax rate at 22%, and even 15% for new manufacturing companies. Malta, although having a headline rate of 35%, provides significant tax refunds which effectively reduce the tax burden.
India’s low labor costs, affordable office space, and reduced administrative expenses make business setup in India more economical than in many European countries including Malta.
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.