Doing Business in Malaysia VS Kazakhstan

Doing Business in Malaysia VS Kazakhstan – A Comparison

Investors looking to expand into Asia may find themselves choosing between Malaysia and Kazakhstan. While Malaysia is part of the ASEAN network with a strong digital infrastructure and pro-business policies, Kazakhstan serves as a strategic gateway between Europe and Asia with abundant natural resources and incentives in its special economic zones.

This comparison helps you evaluate both countries based on incorporation ease, tax policies, market access, and business operating costs—key factors for any international expansion.

Key Comparison Points

Business Environment

• Malaysia: Malaysia offers a stable business environment with investor-friendly government initiatives, strong digital infrastructure, and active participation in global trade agreements.
• Kazakhstan: Kazakhstan is a resource-rich country with improving regulatory frameworks, particularly in the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), though bureaucracy can still pose challenges.

Taxation

• Malaysia: Malaysia maintains a flat 24% corporate tax rate, with incentives for SMEs and no capital gains tax on most asset disposals.
• Kazakhstan: Kazakhstan applies a 20% corporate tax rate, and capital gains are generally taxed, although certain exemptions apply within special economic zones.

Ease of Company Incorporation

• Malaysia: Company incorporation is efficient and digital through the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), with support from 3E Accounting’s Malaysia company registration services.
• Kazakhstan: While Kazakhstan has simplified registration for domestic entities, foreign investors may face language barriers and extra regulatory steps when incorporating.

Cost of Living and Business Operations

• Malaysia: With affordable office space, labor, and services, Malaysia is ideal for starting a business in Malaysia and managing costs efficiently.
• Kazakhstan: Business costs are moderate, though certain services and imports may be more expensive due to regional logistics and economic fluctuations.

Access to Markets

• Malaysia: Malaysia enjoys trade access through ASEAN, RCEP, and CPTPP, connecting businesses to global markets in Asia-Pacific and beyond.
• Kazakhstan: Kazakhstan provides access to Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) markets and shares transit routes between China and Europe, boosting logistics and manufacturing sectors.

Quick Comparison Overview

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

Factors	Malaysia	Kazakhstan
Business Environment	Stable, digital-ready, investment-friendly	Resource-rich, reforming regulations, regional hub
Corporate Tax Rate	24%	20%
Capital Gains Tax	Generally not applicable	Applicable, with some exemptions
Ease of Incorporation	Digital, fast via company setup in Malaysia	Simplified for locals; more complex for foreigners
Business Costs	Low operating and living costs	Moderate, with variable logistics costs
Market Access	ASEAN, CPTPP, RCEP, global FTAs	EAEU, China-Europe trade corridor

Benefits of Choosing 3E Accounting

Selecting the right partner is crucial when it comes to starting a business in Malaysia. At 3E Accounting, we offer a comprehensive range of solutions designed to simplify the entire process of company incorporation in Malaysia. From ensuring compliance with local regulations to providing expert guidance tailored to your specific needs, we make the journey seamless.

For entrepreneurs looking to navigate Malaysia company registration or explore company setup in Malaysia, our team provides unmatched expertise and support. Additionally, our company incorporation services are tailored to help you succeed in the competitive business environment.

With a deep understanding of the region’s business landscape, we also provide resources for setting up businesses in Malaysia, ensuring that every step is clear and efficient. Whether you need assistance with corporate secretarial or company secretary services, we are here to help.

To explore our services or discuss your business needs, contact 3E Accounting. With our strong presence in Malaysia and a proven track record, we are your trusted partner for success in Asia.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Malaysia more business-friendly than Kazakhstan?

Answer: Yes, starting a business in Malaysia is generally easier due to its stable political climate, digital processes, and government-backed incentives.

How does Malaysia company registration compare with Kazakhstan?

Answer: Malaysia company registration is fast and fully online through the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), while Kazakhstan’s process may require translation and manual documentation for foreign investors.

Which country has the lower corporate tax rate?

Answer: Kazakhstan has a slightly lower corporate tax rate at 20%, while Malaysia’s rate is 24%, but Malaysia offers more exemptions and no capital gains tax in most cases.

Where can I find trusted company incorporation services in Malaysia?

Answer: Company incorporation services by 3E Accounting provide expert support, digital processing, and full compliance assistance.

Is it cheaper to operate a business in Malaysia than in Kazakhstan?

Answer: Yes, Malaysia generally offers lower business costs across office rental, labor, and utilities. You can explore more in this guide to setting up businesses in Malaysia.

Does Malaysia offer better market access than Kazakhstan?

Answer: Malaysia is a member of ASEAN, CPTPP, and RCEP, providing wider trade opportunities than Kazakhstan, which primarily connects through the Eurasian Economic Union.

Can I get complete support for company setup in Malaysia?

Answer: Yes, company setup in Malaysia is fully supported by expert firms like 3E Accounting, offering end-to-end assistance for local and foreign investors.

Who provides corporate secretarial and company secretary services in Malaysia?

Answer: You can contact 3E Accounting for comprehensive corporate secretarial and company secretary services that ensure full statutory compliance.