The Most Tax-Efficient EU Countries for Business

The European Union remains one of the world’s most competitive regions in terms of tax policy. Member states actively work to attract investment and develop innovative sectors while maintaining a predictable legal environment for international companies. Despite the EU’s high regulatory standards and fiscal obligations, some jurisdictions offer flexible, business-friendly tax regimes that enable companies to reduce their overall tax burden significantly.

A country’s tax attractiveness is usually evaluated by assessing its corporate income tax rate, dividend taxation rules, intellectual property regimes, cross-border structuring options, double-taxation treaties and the specific incentives available to international holding companies.

Estonia is widely regarded as one of the most advantageous jurisdictions due to its unique corporate tax model, which is based on the principle of ‘taxation upon distribution’. Undistributed profits, including capital gains, are entirely exempt from corporate income tax, which gives companies that reinvest earnings into growth a major advantage. Taxation only arises when dividends are paid, making Estonia especially efficient for digital, technology, and financial businesses. Additional benefits include a transparent digital ecosystem, administrative simplicity, and generally low operating costs.

Meanwhile, Cyprus remains a top destination for international business thanks to its fixed corporate tax rate and wide range of incentives for companies with foreign participation. Its tax residency rules are flexible, and the treatment of foreign-sourced income is designed to support holding structures and commercial enterprises. A particular strength is the Cypriot IP regime, which significantly reduces tax obligations for companies in IT, fintech, software development and digital services. The island’s appeal is further enhanced by its strategic location, developed banking infrastructure, and English-based legal system.

Malta, an EU member with a mature financial sector, offers one of the most effective corporate tax refund systems in Europe. Although the nominal tax rate may appear high, Malta’s refund mechanism effectively reduces the tax burden to one of the lowest in the EU. This system is particularly appealing to international holdings, gaming businesses, crypto companies, and digital service providers. The jurisdiction’s extensive double-tax treaty network enables flexible structuring of cross-border corporate groups.

Lithuania provides a favourable tax environment for SMEs, technology firms, and digital innovation projects. Certain categories of companies qualify for reduced corporate tax rates, making the jurisdiction appealing for start-ups, fintech developers and companies building digital financial solutions. Lithuania actively supports fintech development through clear regulatory frameworks, predictable tax policy and low operational costs.

Ireland consistently ranks among the EU’s leading low-tax jurisdictions thanks to its well-known corporate income tax rate and one of the most advanced IP protection systems in Europe. Many multinational corporations base their European headquarters in Ireland because of its tax efficiency, English-speaking environment, strong talent pool and stable legal system. Its innovation-driven tax incentives encourage the development of R&D centres and high-tech manufacturing.

While not a traditional low-tax jurisdiction, the Czech Republic attracts many businesses with its moderate corporate tax rate, manageable operating costs, stable economy, and strong EU logistics connections. Specific incentive programmes are available for manufacturing, innovative industries, and technology projects. These benefits make the Czech Republic a good option for companies that have operational infrastructure, production or distribution activities in the EU.

Bulgaria has long maintained its position as one of the EU’s most affordable and predictable tax jurisdictions. It offers one of the lowest flat corporate income tax rates in the EU, making it highly attractive to businesses seeking to minimise their fiscal burden while maintaining access to the EU market and its legal framework. Its tax environment is stable, with infrequent regulatory changes and a consistent approach by tax authorities — an important factor for trading companies, manufacturing businesses and firms operating with relatively low margins. Reduced dividend tax further simplifies profit repatriation.

Furthermore, Bulgaria offers comparatively low social security contributions, significantly reducing employment costs, which is especially beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises. A low flat personal income tax rate encourages entrepreneurship and talent relocation. Operational expenses, including office rent, labour and administrative services, are also well below EU averages, striking a balance between tax efficiency and cost-effective business operations. This makes the jurisdiction particularly well-suited to trade, light manufacturing, logistics and service-sector companies that require a stable and predictable fiscal framework.

A comparative analysis of these jurisdictions shows that the most substantial tax advantages arise in regimes favouring reinvested profits, international holdings, digital services and innovation-driven businesses. Estonia, Cyprus, Malta, Ireland and the Netherlands remain among the EU’s leading tax-efficient countries, while Lithuania and the Czech Republic are strengthening their positions through balanced tax incentives, regulatory quality and affordable operational conditions.

Foreign investors and entrepreneurs should choose the right jurisdiction based on their business model, target market, ownership structure, planned activities and sector-specific regulatory requirements. Effective corporate structuring and an appropriate tax model can significantly reduce obligations and enhance investment returns. Regulated United Europe supports clients with jurisdiction selection, company structuring, tax planning and regulatory compliance throughout the EU.

In which cases is it beneficial for Chinese citizens to open a company in Cyprus?

It is most advantageous when the business structure is designed for international operations and working with European counterparties, while also optimising taxes and maintaining a high level of legal protection. The flexible Cypriot legal and tax systems make the country attractive for several specific sectors.

Firstly, Cyprus is ideal for trading and intermediary companies that purchase goods in Asia and supply them to EU countries, the Middle East, and Africa. The low corporate tax rate, the absence of tax on dividends for non-residents and the efficient structuring of supply chains enable Chinese entrepreneurs to reduce their overall tax burden while retaining access to the European market.

Companies operating in IT, software development, digital platforms and fintech services benefit especially from registering in Cyprus. Local legislation provides a preferential tax regime for income from intellectual property, making it possible to significantly reduce corporate income tax for projects in areas such as SaaS, mobile applications, financial technologies, cloud services, and digital ecosystems. Combined with an English-speaking environment and a well-developed corporate legal system, Cyprus becomes a convenient launch point for international digital projects targeting the EU market.

Cyprus is also an attractive location for the holding structures of Chinese corporate groups that manage assets in Europe or Africa. A flexible participation-exemption system, the absence of tax on dividend repatriation and an extensive network of double taxation treaties make Cyprus an efficient platform for owning shares in subsidiaries, managing investment assets and consolidating international operations.

Another area of interest is logistics and international service centres. Thanks to its geographic location, convenient ports and stable business regulation, Cyprus allows Chinese companies to establish operational hubs to serve clients in the EU, the Middle East and North Africa. Trading and management structures are both suitable for this purpose and can include customer support centres, finance offices, deal-support units, and B2B service divisions.

Cyprus is also in demand in the investment sphere. Chinese entrepreneurs often use Cypriot companies to hold European assets and real estate projects, and to structure investment flows between regions. Legal predictability, the Anglo-Saxon corporate law tradition, and flexible tax rules enable capital to be managed safely and fiscal risks to be minimised.

Cyprus is likewise one of the most convenient options for projects related to the export of Chinese goods, the use of European payment systems, cooperation with European banks or entry into the EU e-commerce market. A company registered in the EU inspires greater trust among European partners, simplifies payment processing, and reduces operational constraints.

In which cases is it beneficial for Chinese citizens to open a company in Greece?

It can be advantageous when the business is oriented towards the European market, requires a moderate tax burden and benefits from relatively low operational costs. It may also involve obtaining residency through investment. Greece’s strategic geographic positioning, access to major maritime trade routes, well-developed tourism sector and improving business environment make it appealing for several specific industries.

Greece is particularly suitable for trade and import-export operations. Its location between Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, its major ports such as Piraeus and Thessaloniki, and its direct logistics routes enable Chinese entrepreneurs to build highly efficient supply chains both within and beyond the EU. Greek customs procedures fully comply with EU standards, meaning that a Greek company provides direct access to the European single market. This is particularly valuable for businesses importing electronics, consumer goods, clothing, household products, and manufacturing components.

Greece is also advantageous for companies operating in tourism, real estate management, and travel-related services. As one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, Greece offers Chinese entrepreneurs ample opportunity to set up hotels, serviced apartments, travel agencies, car rental services and tourism management companies. A Greek corporate structure simplifies daily operations and owning a local company makes it easier to hire staff and obtain business-related permits.

Real estate investment is another key reason why Chinese citizens choose Greece. Companies that hold or manage property for rental, resale or ownership are in strong demand due to the stable real estate market, access to long- and short-term tenants, and the ability to use company-based ownership as part of the Greek Golden Visa investment residency programme. Compared to other Mediterranean countries, Greece’s real estate market remains more affordable, making it attractive for long-term investment strategies.

Greece is also a good location for businesses operating in the food, restaurant and product distribution sectors. Chinese entrepreneurs are developing networks of Asian restaurants, grocery stores, and delivery services. Greek corporate law offers a predictable legal framework, while taxation remains relatively competitive for these types of ventures.

Additionally, Greece has become an appealing platform for educational, cultural and consulting businesses targeting Chinese clients, such as language schools, cultural centres, EU study abroad agencies and firms assisting investors with property acquisition or business setup.

Overall, Greek jurisdiction is ideal for entrepreneurs who value direct access to the EU market, reasonable operating costs, eligibility for investment-based residency and a favourable balance between labour costs and workforce quality.

If you would like me to, I can prepare a comparative table showing the most advantageous business sectors in Greece, Cyprus, Malta and Portugal for Chinese entrepreneurs.

What types of business activity benefit from Chinese citizens opening a company in Malta?

Opening a company in Malta is particularly advantageous when the business is focused on international operations and entry into the EU market, as Malta has one of the most efficient corporate tax regimes in Europe. Malta combines an Anglo-Saxon legal system, a developed financial ecosystem and a unique tax refund mechanism, making it highly attractive to several specific business sectors.

First and foremost, Malta is an optimal jurisdiction for international trading companies. Chinese entrepreneurs who supply goods to the EU, North Africa and the Middle East often use Maltese structures as convenient hubs for contracting, financial settlements, and overseeing logistics chains. A Maltese company carries strong reputational value within Europe, simplifies access to EU banking infrastructure and provides a stable legal environment for long-term trade.

The jurisdiction is also highly advantageous for IT companies, fintech projects, software developers, and digital platform operators. Malta offers an efficient tax model for income connected with intellectual property, alongside an established ecosystem for software as a service (SaaS) platforms, mobile applications, software development, cloud-based services, and financial technology (fintech) products. A significant advantage for such companies is Malta’s tax-refund system for shareholders, which substantially reduces the effective corporate tax rate during international expansion.

Malta remains a recognised hub for companies in financial services, asset management, holding companies, and international investment projects. Its flexible corporate legislation, extensive double-tax treaty network, and transparent dividend taxation system make Maltese entities highly effective holding structures for European and African assets. Chinese entrepreneurs often use Maltese companies to hold shares in subsidiaries, manage real estate portfolios or operate investment funds.

One of the most promising sectors for Chinese citizens is licensed online services and digital operations businesses, such as gaming platforms, entertainment technology, data processing services, and crypto-asset projects that fall under the EU MiCA regulatory framework. Malta has historically been one of Europe’s most advanced jurisdictions for online gaming and virtual asset companies, thanks to its clear regulatory structure and strong international licensing reputation.

Chinese entrepreneurs also benefit from setting up service-oriented companies in Malta to support European markets, such as marketing agencies, IT outsourcing firms, consulting providers, HR services and e-commerce support centres. Malta’s highly skilled English-speaking workforce, strong access to the EU market and stable legal system make it an ideal location for building customer support centres and regional operational hubs.

A Maltese company is also an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to hold European assets, participate in international projects, or set up investment structures with minimal fiscal exposure. With no withholding tax on dividends paid to non-residents, flexible capital rules and transparent corporate law, Malta remains one of the leading jurisdictions for tax-efficient structuring.

If you would like, I can also prepare a comparative analysis showing how Malta compares with Cyprus, Greece, Portugal and Estonia for Chinese entrepreneurs launching international businesses.

In which business sectors is it beneficial for Chinese citizens to open a company in Estonia?

Opening a company in Estonia is particularly advantageous for Chinese citizens when the business focuses on digital services, international operations, high-level automation and minimising the tax burden through reinvestment of profits. Estonia’s corporate tax model, combined with its fully digital administrative infrastructure, creates an environment that may not suit every business type, but which is exceptionally well-suited to certain sectors.

It is especially beneficial for IT companies, software developers, digital platforms, start-ups and online businesses. Since corporate income tax is only charged when profits are distributed as dividends, any revenue reinvested in product development, technological upgrades or team expansion is exempt from taxation. This makes Estonia one of the most economically efficient EU jurisdictions for SaaS companies, mobile app developers, e-commerce operators, cloud services, AI projects, fintech solutions and other innovative tech businesses targeting the European or global market.

Estonia is also an advantageous entry point into the EU for companies engaged in international trade, e-commerce, marketing services and the remote delivery of services to European clients. Its fully digital corporate environment, efficient administrative system and low operational costs enable Chinese entrepreneurs to run their companies remotely with minimal bureaucratic burden. This is particularly important for businesses that do not require physical infrastructure and are primarily focused on B2B services or online European markets.

The Estonian jurisdiction is also suitable for consulting firms, outsourcing companies, technology support services, start-up assistance businesses and management or analytical service providers. Estonia offers transparent corporate rules, automated tax mechanisms and convenient tools for working with banks and fintech institutions — factors that are especially valuable for Chinese entrepreneurs building international, service-oriented business models.

From an investment perspective, Estonia provides a convenient platform for owning European assets, participating in technology and fintech ventures, and structuring investment flows into the EU. Strong legal protection, predictable regulatory practices and the absence of corporate tax until profit distribution create favourable conditions for long-term international projects.

Estonia remains in demand in the crypto and digital assets sector due to its mature regulatory environment and advanced digital ecosystem. The country is well suited to companies that provide virtual services, technological infrastructure or digital products. Its tax regime and e-government infrastructure support businesses seeking to automate, increase transparency and improve efficiency in their internal processes.

Overall, Estonia is particularly advantageous for Chinese citizens who value digital corporate management, wish to minimise their physical presence in the EU, want to establish a reliable structure for serving European clients and intend to expand their business by continuously reinvesting profits.

If you would like me to, I can also prepare a comparative analysis showing how Estonia compares with other EU jurisdictions, such as Malta, Cyprus, Greece and Portugal, for Chinese-owned companies.

What types of business activity would benefit from Chinese citizens opening a company in Lithuania?

Opening a company in Lithuania is particularly advantageous for Chinese citizens when the business is connected to technology, e-commerce or fintech, or is expected to scale up rapidly. Lithuania combines a flexible tax system with a highly developed fintech ecosystem and relatively low operational costs, making it one of the most attractive EU destinations for Chinese entrepreneurs focused on international expansion.

Lithuania is particularly well-suited to fintech projects, payment institutions, digital money transfer services, and electronic money operators. The country has one of the most progressive regulatory systems for financial technologies in Europe: the national regulator processes licence applications efficiently and provides transparent supervision and active support for the development of innovative financial products. Chinese entrepreneurs use Lithuanian companies to access the EU market through e-wallet services, payment gateways, online acquiring, B2B payment solutions, international transfers, and a variety of other digital financial products.

The jurisdiction is also well suited to IT businesses, including software development companies, SaaS providers, AI start-ups, cyber-security firms, online service platforms, and digital ecosystems. Lithuania offers reduced corporate tax rates for small companies and has a strong infrastructure of technology parks, business incubators, and start-up support centres. This makes Lithuania an excellent location for research teams, development centres, service hubs and technological units serving European clients.

Lithuania is also advantageous for companies engaged in e-commerce, international trade and logistics. Its geographical position, close to the Scandinavian, German and Central and Eastern European markets, combined with robust warehouse infrastructure and accessible logistics solutions, enables Chinese entrepreneurs to distribute goods efficiently within the EU. Many Chinese companies use Lithuanian entities as regional e-commerce hubs, distribution centres or legal structures for operating on European marketplaces.

Another promising area is outsourcing and service-oriented businesses, such as marketing, customer support, analytics, data processing, design, IT outsourcing and consulting. Lithuania offers competitive labour costs, a highly educated workforce, strong English proficiency and a reliable corporate environment. These advantages are particularly valuable for Chinese entrepreneurs looking to establish international service centres dedicated to supporting their European client base.

Lithuania is also a practical entry point for investment activities. Lithuanian entities are commonly used to manage European assets, participate in tech-sector investments, co-invest in start-ups or hold corporate structures across the EU. The country’s transparent legal system and moderate tax burden facilitate safe and predictable capital structuring.

Lithuania is also attractive to companies involved in high-tech manufacturing, R&D and engineering solutions. The government actively supports high-value industries through incentives, subsidies and tax benefits for innovative enterprises.

Opening a company in Lithuania is particularly beneficial for Chinese citizens seeking to access the EU market with technology-, finance- or service-based products, who require a stable legal environment and wish to minimise operational costs. If needed, I can prepare a comparative overview of the advantages of Lithuania versus Estonia, Cyprus, Malta and Greece for Chinese entrepreneurs.

What types of business activity would it be beneficial for Chinese citizens to open a company in the Czech Republic for?

Opening a company in the Czech Republic is particularly advantageous for Chinese citizens when the business is connected to the real economy, manufacturing, logistics or intra-EU trade, or when physical infrastructure within the European Union is required. The Czech Republic has a stable economy, a strategically central European location and moderate taxation, making it an optimal choice for several business activities.

It is especially suitable for manufacturing companies, light industry enterprises, assembly facilities, and engineering or technical projects. Compared to Germany or Austria, the Czech Republic offers more affordable labour costs while maintaining high professional standards and a strong industrial infrastructure. Consequently, Chinese entrepreneurs can establish production, assembly or packaging operations in the Czech Republic to supply goods to the EU market without facing logistical delays or additional customs duties.

The jurisdiction is also advantageous for companies engaged in logistics, exports and imports. It has one of the most developed transport systems in Central Europe, with modern highways, major railway hubs and international transport corridors providing direct access to Europe’s key logistics centres. Chinese entrepreneurs often use Czech companies as distribution hubs for products shipped to Germany, Austria, Poland and Slovakia. This is particularly beneficial for trading companies and importers of electronics, auto parts, clothing, consumer appliances and other goods that are transported in large quantities.

The Czech Republic is also a good location for companies working in real estate, construction and development. There is stable demand in the country for residential property, commercial spaces and industrial warehouses. Chinese investors often use Czech companies to hold real estate assets, lease out properties, execute long-term development projects and manage residential or office complexes.

The IT sector also finds favourable conditions in the Czech Republic. The country has a strong technical education system and a well-developed network of universities, as well as relatively affordable skilled labour. This makes the Czech Republic an ideal location for setting up development teams, customer support centres, testing units and R&D departments. Chinese technology companies often set up entities in the Czech Republic to collaborate with European partners, provide technical support, and localise digital products for the EU market.

The Czech Republic is also an attractive option for B2B service providers, including accounting firms, outsourcing companies, data processing centres, call centres, technical support services, marketing agencies, HR firms and consulting businesses. The predictable tax environment, reasonable corporate tax rate and stable legal system enable Chinese entrepreneurs to establish long-term service operations.

The country is also well suited to companies trading in high-tech products and e-commerce operators working with European marketplaces. The country’s central location makes it convenient to set up warehouse infrastructure and organise logistics for online stores serving customers across Europe. Many Chinese brands and manufacturers use Czech entities as regional e-commerce hubs.

Furthermore, the Czech jurisdiction is appealing to those who intend to obtain EU residence permits or expand their physical presence in Europe in the future. Having an active Czech company with staff, office space and real economic activity can support subsequent immigration strategies.

The Czech Republic is particularly useful for Chinese citizens who are planning to develop businesses in manufacturing, trading, logistics, technology or services targeting the European market. If needed, I can prepare a comparative table outlining the differences between opening a business in the Czech Republic and in Lithuania, Estonia, Poland or Germany as a Chinese entrepreneur.

In which sectors is it beneficial for Chinese citizens to open a company in Poland?

Opening a company in Poland is particularly advantageous for Chinese citizens when the business is connected to manufacturing, trade, logistics, technology, or any other operational activity intended to scale up across the European Union. Poland has a large domestic market, a strategic geographic location, access to a skilled workforce and moderate taxes, making it one of the strongest business destinations in Central Europe.

Poland is particularly well-suited to manufacturing companies and enterprises operating in the real sector. The country has well-developed industrial infrastructure and affordable labour resources, as well as government incentives that enable companies to organise production or assembly at a significantly lower cost than in Western Europe. Chinese entrepreneurs often use Polish factories and assembly lines to adapt products to European standards before distributing them throughout the EU, avoiding logistical delays and additional customs duties.

The jurisdiction is equally advantageous for logistics, transportation and distribution businesses. Poland is the largest logistics hub in Central Europe, with a significant proportion of EU freight traffic passing through the country. Logistics clusters in Warsaw, Poznań, Wrocław and Łódź provide access to Grade A warehouses, transportation hubs and EU-wide rail routes. Polish entities often serve as the main distribution centre for Chinese companies importing goods into Europe due to low operating costs and excellent connectivity with Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and the Baltic region.

Poland is also an attractive destination for companies engaged in e-commerce, online retail and marketplace operations. With a domestic market of nearly 40 million people, cost-efficient logistics and affordable warehouse rentals, Chinese entrepreneurs can quickly scale up their online businesses. Polish companies are commonly used as regional fulfilment hubs for sales in Germany, Austria and Scandinavia.

In the technology sector, Poland has emerged as a rapidly growing centre of innovation. The country offers a high standard of IT education, a strong pool of engineering talent and competitive salary levels compared to those in Western Europe. Consequently, it is highly advantageous for Chinese citizens to establish companies specialising in software development, application creation, digital product support, technical assistance, and outsourced IT services for European clients.

Poland is likewise well-suited to construction companies, real estate development projects and property management businesses. Demand for residential and commercial property remains high, the economy continues to grow, and construction costs are lower than in Western Europe. Chinese investors often use Polish entities to acquire, develop and manage residential complexes, office buildings and warehouse facilities.

Additionally, Poland is a favourable jurisdiction for B2B service companies, including accounting firms, call centres, business process outsourcing companies, consulting agencies, marketing companies and HR service providers. A competitive labour market, highly skilled specialists and a stable legal environment are key advantages for setting up international service centres.

Poland is also used as an entry point into the EU by Chinese brands requiring a reliable European corporate presence for entering into contracts, participating in tenders, certifying products and working with European banks.

Overall, Poland is particularly advantageous for Chinese entrepreneurs looking to develop businesses with a tangible operational structure, such as manufacturing, logistics, trade, e-commerce, IT or service-sector enterprises. If needed, I can prepare a comparative analysis showing how Poland differs from the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Estonia and Germany for Chinese entrepreneurs setting up companies in the EU.

What types of business activity are beneficial for Chinese citizens to open a company in Portugal?

Opening a company in Portugal is particularly advantageous for Chinese citizens in sectors where access to the EU market, moderate taxation, a stable regulatory environment, and the opportunity to combine business operations with a long-term immigration strategy are essential. Portugal remains one of the most flexible and business-friendly countries in Europe for international entrepreneurs, and several specific types of activity offer particular advantages.

Portugal is particularly well-suited to companies operating in tourism, hospitality and short-term rental management. It is one of Europe’s top tourist destinations, with consistently high demand for hotels, serviced apartments and tourism-related infrastructure. Chinese entrepreneurs are entering this market by setting up hotels, guesthouses, property management companies, rental services and travel agencies. Portugal also provides simplified tax regimes for small businesses and favourable rules for companies engaged in short-term rentals, making this area financially efficient.

The jurisdiction is equally attractive for real estate and development businesses. Chinese investors often set up companies to acquire, manage and lease real estate assets, including residential complexes, tourist residences, commercial units and long-term development projects. A local corporate structure simplifies asset management, income distribution and participation in large-scale construction initiatives. Another significant advantage is the opportunity to pursue a residency-by-investment strategy for the whole family alongside business activities.

Trade, import and export operations are another highly favourable sector. Portugal’s strategic location as a logistical bridge between Europe, Africa and South America makes it an ideal base for Chinese companies trading food products, consumer goods, electronics, apparel and household items. Well-developed ports and a robust transport network enable efficient distribution across all EU countries.

Portugal is also advantageous for e-commerce and online retail. Lower operating costs, affordable office and warehouse space, robust logistics and a favourable tax regime enable Chinese entrepreneurs to set up companies to sell to customers throughout Europe, whether via their own websites, marketplaces or regional distribution partners. Portuguese companies are often used as regional e-commerce hubs, offering convenient access to Spain, France and Italy.

In the technology sector, Portugal offers significant potential thanks to its dynamic start-up ecosystem and international tech parks. Chinese entrepreneurs can benefit from establishing companies in IT development, SaaS solutions, digital services, data processing, cybersecurity, marketing technologies and outsourced service provision. The country actively attracts high-tech firms by offering grants, tax incentives and simplified procedures for international specialists.

Portugal is also well suited to providing educational, cultural and consulting services to Chinese clients. Stable demand and transparent regulations allow language schools, cultural centres, study-abroad agencies and companies supporting investors and families to operate smoothly.

The gastronomy and restaurant sector is another promising area. Chinese cuisine is consistently popular in major Portuguese cities, and the food service market remains dynamic and open to new concepts, including franchise operations and innovative dining formats.

Overall, setting up a company in Portugal is a particularly good option for Chinese citizens looking to develop businesses in tourism, commerce, technology, investment or services, while also using the country as a stable base for long-term immigration and family planning within the European Union.

What types of business activity would it be beneficial for Chinese citizens to open a company in Bulgaria for?

Opening a company in Bulgaria is particularly advantageous for Chinese citizens in sectors such as trade, manufacturing and operational activities that require low operating costs and a stable regulatory environment. Bulgaria has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the EU and an affordable workforce, as well as a strategic geographical position, making it an attractive jurisdiction for specific business activities.

It is especially suitable for companies engaged in trade, import and export operations. Its location between the European Union and the Balkan region, its proximity to the ports of Varna and Burgas, and its efficient logistics links to Central and Eastern Europe enable Chinese entrepreneurs to set up distribution hubs and commercial structures. Bulgarian companies are often used as logistics centres for supplying electronics, consumer goods, auto parts, building materials, and textiles.

The country is particularly appealing to manufacturing companies and enterprises involved in assembly, light industrial production, packaging and product processing. Bulgaria’s moderate labour costs, the availability of industrial facilities, and government incentives for investors create favourable conditions for the relocation of production activities from Asia to Europe. Chinese entrepreneurs take advantage of this by localising production to reduce transportation expenses, customs duties, and the overall complexity of the supply chain when selling goods within the EU.

Bulgaria is also advantageous for businesses in logistics, transportation services and warehousing. It lies at the intersection of major transit corridors between Turkey, Romania, Greece and Serbia, making it a key logistics hub in the region. This is essential for Chinese companies when establishing stable supply routes for goods destined for Europe and the Balkans.

Bulgaria has also shown dynamic growth in the IT and outsourcing sectors. Its strong technical education system, well-developed outsourcing ecosystem and competitive labour costs enable Chinese companies to set up software development centres, technical support teams, call centres and analytical departments. This makes the country highly attractive for projects serving European clients and requiring skilled talent at optimised cost levels.

Bulgaria is also convenient for companies engaged in real estate management, rentals, construction and development. Property prices remain relatively low compared to those in Central Europe, while demand for both commercial and residential real estate is steadily increasing. Chinese investors use Bulgarian companies to acquire buildings, lease out properties and execute long-term development projects.

Additional promising sectors include the restaurant industry, franchising and food retail. The Bulgarian market is receptive to international cuisines, and there is steady demand for Chinese restaurants, Asian grocery stores and food-delivery services in major cities.

Furthermore, Bulgaria is ideal for businesses requiring a simple corporate structure, low corporate tax rates, incentives for small businesses and affordable maintenance costs. This makes the country ideal for service firms, consulting agencies, local retail outlets and B2B companies that depend on minimal administrative overheads.

Overall, Bulgaria is particularly beneficial for Chinese citizens looking to develop businesses in trading, manufacturing, logistics, outsourcing or real estate under a moderate tax burden and with low operational expenses. If you would like me to, I can also prepare a comparative analysis of Bulgaria versus the Czech Republic, Poland, Romania and Hungary, focusing specifically on the needs of Chinese entrepreneurs.

What types of business activity would it be beneficial for Chinese citizens to open a company in Ireland for?

Opening a company in Ireland is one of the most advantageous decisions for Chinese citizens when the business is connected to high-tech industries, international digital services, intellectual property, financial operations or projects aiming to expand across the EU and the United States. Ireland offers a unique combination of a low corporate tax rate, an English-speaking environment, a highly skilled workforce, and world-class infrastructure – factors that make the country particularly attractive to several strategic business sectors.

Ireland is especially favourable for technology companies, start-ups and software developers. The corporate tax rate on active trading income is one of the lowest in Europe, and the country’s advanced IT ecosystem attracts global leaders such as Google, Meta, Apple, Microsoft and TikTok. This provides Chinese entrepreneurs with access to a large international talent pool, modern data centres and a highly developed digital infrastructure – an essential foundation for SaaS platforms, mobile applications, artificial intelligence solutions, cybersecurity companies and data processing services.

Ireland is also one of the strongest jurisdictions in the EU for businesses working with intellectual property. Irish tax rules provide highly favourable conditions for registering IP, receiving licensing income and commercialising innovative products. This makes Ireland an ideal base for Chinese start-ups developing new technologies, software, digital platforms and advanced products requiring legal protection and monetisation in both the European and US markets.

Ireland is equally advantageous for international financial and fintech projects. Dublin is one of Europe’s major financial centres, hosting divisions of global banks, electronic money institutions, payment providers and investment funds. Chinese entrepreneurs use Irish entities to launch financial solutions, collaborate with capital institutions, access the European payments market and utilise high-level financial infrastructure.

The jurisdiction is also well suited to holding structures, investment vehicles and companies that manage assets across Europe. Participation-exemption rules, robust investor protection and Ireland’s extensive network of double taxation treaties make the country an ideal location for managing cross-border investments, owning subsidiaries and establishing international corporate structures.

Ireland is an attractive location for large e-commerce operations, digital marketing agencies, online education companies and businesses within the creative industries. The English-speaking environment and Ireland’s close business ties with the US create unique advantages for scaling global brands, working with multinational platforms, and delivering B2B and B2C digital services.

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors deserve special mention. Ireland is a European leader in the production of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biotech innovations. Chinese entrepreneurs active in these industries can access advanced scientific infrastructure, highly qualified specialists and partnerships with world-renowned corporations.

Ireland is also an ideal jurisdiction for companies requiring a highly reputable business environment, direct access to the EU market, an English-speaking workforce and strong trust from European financial institutions. Having an Irish company significantly enhances credibility in Europe, the US and the UK – an important factor for international contracts and large-scale partnerships.