Doing Business in Hong Kong VS Malta – A Comparison
Entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish or expand their businesses in Asia often face a tough decision when choosing between Hong Kong and Malta. Both regions offer unique advantages, making the choice a challenging one. While Hong Kong is renowned for its competitive business landscape, high quality of life, and cost-effective setup for smaller businesses, Malta stands out as a gateway to the European market with its strategic location and favorable business policies. This article explores the key factors to help you make an informed decision.
Key Comparison Points
Business Environment
- Hong Kong: Hong Kong boasts political stability, a robust legal framework, and government policies that actively support businesses.
- Malta: Malta offers a stable political environment with a business-friendly legal framework, serving as a bridge to European markets.
Taxation
- Hong Kong: Hong Kong has a corporate tax rate of 16.5%, with no capital gains tax and various tax incentives for businesses.
- Malta: Malta offers a corporate tax rate of 35%, but businesses can benefit from tax refunds and incentives, effectively reducing the tax burden.
Ease of Company Incorporation
- Hong Kong: Hong Kong provides a streamlined incorporation process with excellent digital infrastructure and a transparent regulatory environment.
- Malta: Malta has a straightforward incorporation process, though it may involve more paperwork compared to Hong Kong, and offers a supportive regulatory framework.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
- Hong Kong: Hong Kong offers relatively lower costs for setting up smaller businesses, though living expenses can be higher.
- Malta: Malta has lower living costs and affordable office spaces, making it attractive for businesses with smaller budgets.
Access to Markets
- Hong Kong: Hong Kong serves as a global hub with excellent connectivity and access to numerous trade agreements, especially in Asia.
- Malta: Malta provides easy access to the European Union market and serves as a strategic location for trade with Europe and North Africa.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference.
Factor |
Hong Kong |
Malta |
Business Environment |
Stable, robust legal framework, and business-friendly policies |
Stable, EU-oriented legal framework with market access |
Corporate Tax Rate |
16.5% |
35% (effective tax rate reduced with refunds) |
Capital Gains Tax |
No capital gains tax |
No capital gains tax |
Ease of Incorporation |
Streamlined process with excellent digital infrastructure |
Straightforward but involves more paperwork |
Business Costs |
Lower costs for small businesses, higher living expenses |
Affordable business setup and lower living costs |
Market Access |
Global connectivity with trade agreements in Asia |
Access to the European Union and North African markets |

Benefits of Choosing 3E Accounting
When it comes to starting a business in Hong Kong, 3E Accounting is your trusted partner. With a proven track record of helping businesses establish themselves successfully, we provide expert guidance on seamless incorporation, taxation, and compliance to ensure a hassle-free process. Our cost-effective solutions cater to businesses of all sizes, helping you save time and resources while achieving your goals.
At 3E Accounting, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive support and tailored services to meet the unique needs of your business. From registration to ongoing compliance, we guide you through every step of the process with our Hong Kong company incorporation services. For a detailed overview, check out our guide to open Hong Kong company registration. Ready to take the next step? Contact us today and let 3E Accounting help you turn your business vision into reality!
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Frequently Asked Questions
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.