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United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has one of the most successful economies in the EU.

It attracts more inward investment from Asia and the US than any other EU country; this success is reflected in the number of foreign companies that have expanded into the UK.

Investors have cited a number of reasons for choosing the UK, including these:

• size of the market - it is the world's 4th largest economy

• location and language - a natural point of entry into the EU

• government policy - the UK has a liberal business environment

At the same time, it should be noted that the UK doesn't have a particularly attractive tax regime - full corporate income tax is 28%.

The 2007 Budget announced a main rate cut from 30% to 28%, effective from April 2008.

At the same time, the small companies' rate was increased from 19% to 20% from April 2007, 21% in April 2008, and 22% in April 2009.


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These are the most popular structures for foreign companies entering the UK:

• Private Limited Company (Ltd), by far the most popular format for foreign investors. Only one shareholder is needed, ideal for wholly-owned subsidiary. No minimum capital requirement and a minimum one director and a company secretary. Accounts to be filed annually

• Public Limited Company (Plc), where the minimum share capital is £50,000and at least 25% of the share capital must be paid up. A minimum of two directors and a company secretary is required. The financial statement must be audited if turnover exceeds £1m.

• Branch of a Foreign Company. The foreign parent is responsible for all liabilities of UK branch. The UK branch as to be required to register with Companies House.

• Limited Liability Partnership with at least two members, each with limited liability.It's a new format but increasingly used for joint ventures. There are same registration and disclosure requirements as limited company

The UK government places a priority on attracting investment from abroad, and has sought to ensure that the regulatory environment is as liberal as possible.