Doing Business in India VS The British Virgin Islands – A Comparison
When considering expanding or starting a business in Asia or globally, entrepreneurs and investors often face the challenge of choosing between India and The British Virgin Islands (BVI). Both destinations offer unique advantages, making the decision complex. While India is renowned for its competitive landscape, high quality of life, and lower costs for setting up smaller businesses, the BVI is often associated with its tax-friendly policies and ease of company incorporation.
Key Comparison Points
Business Environment
- India: India boasts a stable political environment and a robust legal framework, complemented by government initiatives like “Make in India” to support businesses.
- The British Virgin Islands: The BVI offers a business-friendly regulatory framework with political stability, making it a preferred destination for offshore companies.
Taxation
- India: Corporate tax rates in India are 22% (15% for new manufacturing companies), and the government provides various tax incentives to promote investment.
- The British Virgin Islands: The BVI is a tax haven with no corporate taxes, capital gains taxes, or value-added taxes, making it highly attractive for tax efficiency.
Ease of Company Incorporation
- India: India has streamlined its company incorporation process through digital platforms, but regulatory compliance can still be time-intensive.
- The British Virgin Islands: The BVI offers a straightforward and quick incorporation process, with minimal regulatory hurdles and a focus on confidentiality.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
- India: India offers lower operational costs, including affordable office space and living expenses, making it ideal for startups and small businesses.
- The British Virgin Islands: The BVI has higher operational costs due to its status as an offshore financial hub, with premium office spaces and living costs.
Access to Markets
- India: India provides excellent global connectivity, a large domestic market, and trade agreements with multiple countries, making it a strategic hub for businesses.
- The British Virgin Islands: The BVI offers access to international markets, particularly for financial services, but lacks a significant domestic consumer base.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference:
Factor |
India |
The British Virgin Islands |
Business Environment |
Stable, government support (e.g., “Make in India”) |
Business-friendly, offshore focus |
Corporate Tax Rate |
22% (15% for new manufacturing companies) |
No corporate taxes |
Capital Gains Tax |
Applicable |
Not applicable |
Ease of Incorporation |
Streamlined but time-intensive |
Quick and straightforward |
Business Costs |
Low operational and living costs |
High operational and living costs |
Market Access |
Large domestic market, global connectivity |
International markets, financial services |

Benefits of Choosing 3E Accounting
When navigating the complexities of doing business in India or The British Virgin Islands, 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.
Ready to Expand into India? Choose 3E Accounting Today!
Stay Secure, Stay Successful With 3E Accounting Services
Contact Us Now
Frequently Asked Questions
India offers a robust legal framework, a large domestic market, and lower operational costs, whereas The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is renowned for its tax-friendly policies, fast incorporation processes, and focus on offshore financial services.
Yes, India is an excellent destination for starting a business in India due to its supportive government initiatives like “Make in India,” low business operation costs, and access to a large consumer base.
The India company registration process is now digitized and more streamlined, though it still involves several compliance steps. Working with experts can simplify the entire journey.
The BVI provides zero corporate tax, no capital gains tax, and no VAT, making it one of the most attractive destinations for tax efficiency globally.
Using expert company incorporation services ensures compliance, accuracy, and a hassle-free experience, particularly in jurisdictions with complex regulations like India.
3E Accounting provides comprehensive business setup in India services including legal, tax, and secretarial support, ideal for both local and foreign investors.
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.