Singapore and Malta, despite their geographical separation and distinct economic paths, share a fascinating historical connection. Both nations’ legacies of British administration have significantly influenced their modern legal, financial, and political systems.

Giacomo Merello (left) and Federico Vasoli

This shared past has imbued them with strong institutional frameworks, business-friendly regulations, and English as an official language, making them particularly attractive to international investors.

Singapore, once a critical maritime hub in the British Empire, rapidly transformed post-independence into a global financial powerhouse, leveraging its strategic location and disciplined governance to become Asia’s premier business destination.

Malta, on the other hand, has played a strategic role in European history for centuries, positioned at the crossroads of major Mediterranean trade routes. Its accession to the European Union in 2004 further solidified its role as a financial and corporate hub, offering businesses seamless access to the EU market.

Despite their colonial roots, the two nations have taken distinct approaches to economic development.

Singapore has become synonymous with cutting-edge technology, world-class infrastructure, and financial services, while Malta has capitalised on its EU membership to foster industries like gaming, maritime trade, tourism, yachting, and investment migration.

Yet, they remain alike in their ability to entice foreign investors seeking strategic advantages in either the Asian or European markets.

The business and investment landscape

Entrepreneurs looking for a jurisdiction to establish or expand their businesses will find both Singapore and Malta to be uniquely compelling.

Singapore, with its pro-business climate, is renowned for its swift company incorporation process, modern banking system, and an ecosystem that fosters innovation.

A business can be incorporated in a matter of days, and foreign ownership is fully permitted. The regulatory environment is transparent, and government agencies actively support new ventures, making it a magnet for multinational corporations and high-growth startups.

Malta, while smaller in scale, provides a similarly attractive business landscape, particularly for those seeking a European base of operations.

A glimpse of Malta. Photo: Federico Vasoli

Companies registered in Malta benefit from its membership in the EU, allowing seamless access to the Single Market. The country has also emerged as a top jurisdiction for fintech, online gambling, yacht and aircraft leasing, and asset management businesses, thanks to its business-friendly regulations and competitive incentives.

For investors evaluating where to set up, the decision often depends on whether they are targeting Asian or European markets.

Singapore is the undisputed gateway to Asia, boasting strong ties with China, India, and ASEAN economies. Malta, with its deep integration into the EU and geographical proximity to Africa, offers businesses the ability to operate within one of the largest economic blocs in the world as well as one of the most promising ones.

Tax advantages and fiscal policies

One of the strongest incentives for choosing either Singapore or Malta as a business jurisdiction lies in their respective tax systems, both designed to attract international investors and enterprises.

Singapore has a flat corporate tax rate of 17 per cent, with numerous exemptions and incentives available that can significantly lower effective tax rates.

Furthermore, there is no capital gains tax, and dividends are tax-free, making it an attractive option for companies and individuals alike. The city-state also boasts an extensive network of double taxation treaties with over 80 countries, ensuring tax efficiency for international businesses.

A glimpse of Malta. Photo: Federico Vasoli

Malta, on the other hand, offers one of the most competitive tax systems in Europe. While its standard corporate tax rate stands at 35 per cent, foreign-owned businesses often benefit from an effective tax rate as low as 5 per cent through the country’s full imputation system.

Additionally, Malta imposes no withholding taxes on dividends, interest, or royalties paid to non-residents, which makes it an attractive holding company jurisdiction.

The island nation also offers VAT exemptions for certain industries, further reducing operational costs for businesses engaged in global trade.

Both jurisdictions apply the principle of taxation of locally sourced or remitted income only. In Malta, this is particularly true for companies with non-domiciled shareholders, which is different from the at least theoretical worldwide taxation approach of most of its neighbours.

Residency and lifestyle benefits

For those considering not just business opportunities but also personal relocation, Singapore and Malta provide attractive residency options that cater to high-net-worth individuals and professionals.

Singapore’s Global Investor Programme (GIP) allows entrepreneurs to obtain permanent residency by investing at least S$2.5 million ($1.87 million) in a local business or an approved investment fund.

This scheme is particularly appealing to individuals seeking stability, security, and access to one of the world’s most advanced economies.

There are other very effective ways to obtain residency and, eventually, citizenship that can be fully explored in a holistic way.

The city-state’s quality of life is unparalleled, with world-class healthcare, excellent international schools, and a safe, cosmopolitan environment.

Malta, in contrast, offers residency and citizenship initiatives that appeal to those looking for greater global mobility. The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) provides a pathway to permanent residency through a combination of real estate investment and financial contributions.

For those seeking an EU passport, the Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment offers a fast-track route to citizenship, granting the right to live, work, and travel freely within the European Union.

Other interesting options, like the ‘self-sufficient’ type of residency, may be open depending on the current citizenship of the applicant and other considerations. Given its Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant social scene, Malta has become an increasingly popular destination for expatriates and entrepreneurs alike.

The expertise of dMTV Global

Navigating the complexities of setting up a business or securing residency in a foreign country requires expert guidance. This is where dMTV Europe, led by its founder, lawyer Federico Vasoli, in Malta, comes into play, with specific expertise in international contracts, residency, and relocation services; Federico, a dedicated professional that is serving a term as vice-president of Italian Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam, also acts as the first point of contact for high-profile Vietnamese personalities in need of a broader scope of assistance.

At the same time dMTV Global, in Singapore, provides assistance on most local major regulatory, residential and international legal needs through its director, Giacomo Merello, a lawyer and locally licensed filing agent. The latter, in his role as Lord of Leslie in the Baronage of Scotland, also assists qualified individuals in dynastic and nobiliary matters both in Singapore and in Malta.