Doing Business in the United Kingdom VS North Macedonia – A Comparison
Entrepreneurs deciding between starting a business in the United Kingdom and North Macedonia face two very different opportunities. One is a well-established global hub with efficient systems, while the other is an emerging market with strategic advantages in Southeast Europe. The choice depends on your business goals and risk appetite.
The United Kingdom offers a competitive regulatory landscape, transparent systems, and lower setup costs for smaller businesses. North Macedonia, though less developed, has a low corporate tax rate and competitive labor costs, attracting companies seeking cost-effective operations in Europe. Here’s a structured comparison to help you evaluate both destinations.
North Macedonia: Offers a simple registration process and one-stop shops for business setup, but digital infrastructure is still catching up.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
The United Kingdom: Offers stable utility services, well-maintained infrastructure, and affordable company incorporation services especially outside London.
North Macedonia: Has very low living and operational costs, making it attractive for outsourcing and manufacturing operations.
Access to Markets
The United Kingdom: Highly connected through trade agreements and international networks, serving as a gateway to Europe, the US, and Commonwealth countries.
North Macedonia: Benefits from EU-aligned trade policies, proximity to Balkan markets, and candidate status for EU membership, though still developing external trade routes.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference.
Factor
The United Kingdom
North Macedonia
Business Environment
Stable, transparent, and pro-investment
Pro-business reforms but with enforcement gaps
Corporate Tax Rate
25%
10%
Capital Gains Tax
Applicable
Not applicable in most cases
Ease of Incorporation
Efficient, digital, and compliant
Simple and low-cost, with less digital integration
Business Costs
Stable and manageable
Very low operating and labor costs
Market Access
Global reach via EU, US, and Commonwealth
Access to Balkan and European markets; EU-aligned
Benefits of Choosing 3E Accounting
When it comes to starting a business in the United Kingdom, navigating the legal and administrative processes can be complex without the right support. That’s where 3E Accounting comes in. As a trusted partner for company incorporation, we provide tailored solutions for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a strong business presence. Whether you need help with company registration or expert guidance on setting up businesses in the UK, our experienced team ensures a smooth and efficient process.
The UK provides a globally integrated ecosystem with reliable infrastructure and strong legal systems. Many entrepreneurs refer to starting a business in the United Kingdom resources for clear guidance.
The UK has a corporate tax rate of 25%, while North Macedonia offers a significantly lower rate at 10%, one of the most competitive in Europe.
The process is efficient, digital, and transparent. You can refer to the company registration guide for full steps and documentation needs.
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.