Doing Business in India VS Sri Lanka – A Comparison
Entrepreneurs and investors often face a dilemma when choosing between India and Sri Lanka as their preferred business destination. Both countries offer unique advantages, making the decision challenging. India boasts a competitive landscape, high quality of life, and lower costs for setting up smaller businesses. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has its own set of strategic benefits, making it a strong contender for investors.
Key Comparison Points
Business Environment
- India: India offers a stable political environment and a robust legal framework. The government actively promotes foreign investments through initiatives like Make in India.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka provides a relatively stable political climate and a growing focus on foreign direct investment, though its legal framework is still evolving.
Taxation
- India: Corporate tax rates in India are competitive at 22% (15% for new manufacturing companies), with various tax incentives available to businesses.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka offers a corporate tax rate of 24%, with certain tax holidays for specific industries like tourism and exports.
Ease of Company Incorporation
- India: India has streamlined its incorporation processes with digital infrastructure and a supportive regulatory environment.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka’s incorporation process is straightforward but less digitized compared to India, which can lead to delays.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
- India: India offers lower operational costs, affordable office spaces, and a cost-effective living environment.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka has higher operational costs and office space expenses, though living costs remain moderate.
Access to Markets
- India: India provides excellent global connectivity, a vast domestic market, and access to numerous trade agreements.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka benefits from its strategic location near key shipping routes, making it a gateway to South Asia.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference:
Factor |
India |
Sri Lanka |
Business Environment |
Stable political environment with a robust legal framework. |
Relatively stable political climate, but evolving legal framework. |
Corporate Tax Rate |
22% (15% for new manufacturing companies) |
24% |
Capital Gains Tax |
Applicable with exemptions for startups. |
Moderate rates with industry-specific exemptions. |
Ease of Incorporation |
Streamlined digital processes. |
Less digitized, causing potential delays. |
Business Costs |
Low operational and living costs. |
Higher operational and office space costs. |
Market Access |
Excellent global connectivity with trade agreements. |
Strategic location near shipping routes. |

Benefits of Choosing 3E Accounting
When navigating the complexities of doing business in India or Sri Lanka, 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
Starting a business in India involves several steps, including understanding legal requirements, incorporation, and registration. For detailed guidance, refer to our starting a business in India guide.
India company registration includes name approval, document submission, and obtaining a Certificate of Incorporation. Learn more through our India company registration guide.
You can streamline the process by leveraging the expertise of professionals. Visit our India company incorporation page for more details.
Company incorporation services simplify the setup process, ensuring compliance and efficiency. Explore our company incorporation services to get started.
3E Accounting offers comprehensive support for business setup in India, including incorporation, registration, and compliance. Learn more about 3E Accounting and our services.
You can reach out to us for expert guidance on business setup by visiting our contact 3E Accounting page.
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.