Doing Business in the United Kingdom VS Taiwan

Doing Business in the United Kingdom VS Taiwan – A Comparison

When comparing the United Kingdom and Taiwan as business destinations, investors often struggle to choose between global reach and regional tech strength. Taiwan is a hub for manufacturing and semiconductors with strong ties to Asia, while the United Kingdom is celebrated for its regulatory transparency, cost-effective company setup, and straightforward compliance for foreign founders.

This guide compares both jurisdictions across business-critical factors. If you’re considering starting a business in the United Kingdom, 3E Accounting provides complete incorporation and post-setup support.

Key Comparison Points

Business Environment

• The United Kingdom: Offers a mature legal system, low corruption, and consistent government support for SMEs and foreign investors.
• Taiwan: Has a well-developed manufacturing sector and pro-business environment, but policies can be influenced by cross-strait geopolitical tensions.

Taxation

• The United Kingdom: Corporate tax is 25%, with R&D credits, SME reliefs, and capital gains tax exemptions available in certain cases.
• Taiwan: Corporate income tax is 20%, with an additional 5% undistributed earnings tax. Capital gains taxes apply only in specific situations.

Ease of Company Incorporation

• The United Kingdom: Digital-first and fast, company incorporation in the United Kingdom is often completed in under a day.
• Taiwan: Requires company name reservation, foreign investment approval, and in-person document submission. The process may take several weeks.

Cost of Living and Business Operations

• The United Kingdom: Offers predictable business costs, especially outside London. You can engage affordable company incorporation services with minimal overheads.
• Taiwan: Has relatively low living costs and affordable office space, making it ideal for startups, though high-tech talent can be expensive.

Access to Markets

• The United Kingdom: Provides strong global trade access with existing deals across Europe, North America, and Asia.
• Taiwan: A tech gateway to East Asia with strong links to Japan and the U.S., though diplomatic status limits formal trade deals with many countries.

Quick Comparison Overview

Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference.

Factor	United Kingdom	Taiwan
Business Environment	Transparent, pro-entrepreneur	Stable, tech-focused, regional risks
Corporate Tax Rate	25%	20% + 5% on undistributed profits
Capital Gains Tax	Taxable with exemptions	Applied only in select cases
Ease of Incorporation	Fully online, same-day possible	Offline steps, 2–4 weeks to complete
Business Costs	Moderate, varies by region	Low operational and living costs
Market Access	Global trade reach	Strong Asia–US links, limited trade pacts

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.

From full company incorporation services to ongoing support like corporate secretarial and company secretary services, we offer a complete suite of solutions to support your company setup. Let us help you focus on what matters most—growing your business. Contact 3E Accounting today and take the first step toward successful expansion.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the UK or Taiwan more efficient for company incorporation?

Answer: The UK is faster, offering same-day registration through company incorporation in the United Kingdom. Taiwan’s process includes manual steps and can take 2–4 weeks.

What are the corporate tax rates in Taiwan vs the UK?

Answer: Corporate tax in the UK is 25%. Taiwan charges 20% corporate income tax, plus a 5% undistributed profit tax, making the total potentially higher depending on retained earnings.

How does business cost compare between the UK and Taiwan?

Answer: While Taiwan has lower labor and rental costs, the UK offers streamlined services like company incorporation services that simplify setup, especially for SMEs.

Can foreigners start a business in the UK easily?

Answer: Yes, the UK supports foreign founders with minimal barriers. Start with this guide to starting a business in the United Kingdom from 3E Accounting.

Are capital gains taxed in both countries?

Answer: In the UK, capital gains are taxed with some exemptions. In Taiwan, they are taxed only in specific cases such as property or major share transfers.

What market access advantages does the UK have over Taiwan?

Answer: The UK has broader global trade agreements. For businesses focused on international expansion, setting up businesses in the United Kingdom opens more markets.

What support exists for foreign investors in the UK?

Answer: The UK offers business finance support, startup visas, and government grants for tech and sustainability.

Does 3E Accounting provide compliance and secretary services?

Answer: Yes, 3E Accounting provides full corporate secretarial and company secretary services for UK-based entities.