When assessing the best countries to start a business, it is important to consider data from official international reports. The Business Ready (B-READY) 2024, the successor to the renowned Doing Business ranking by the World Bank Group, ranks countries based on the ease of starting and operating a business globally.
These rankings offer valuable insights into regulations, public services, and market competition, though they represent only part of the bigger picture. In 2025, business decisions are influenced by more than just taxes, regulations, or the ease of setting up a company. Factors such as political stability, quality of life, infrastructure, and available talent play a pivotal role in attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and companies.
Key factors beyond rankings
When making strategic decisions, entrepreneurs and investors must evaluate key factors beyond rankings and metrics, as these can shape the course of a business.
A favorable regulatory environment may be outweighed by a deficient mobility infrastructure or challenges in attracting talent. By understanding and considering these elements, businesses can make more informed decisions, mitigate risks, and seize opportunities that global rankings may not fully capture.
Regulations and bureaucratic streamlining
A business environment characterized by favorable regulations, streamlined bureaucratic processes, and balanced, flexible labor laws drives and accelerates company expansion.
The digitization of procedures and the reduction of administrative requirements have expedited business creation in countries like Singapore, known for its favorable tax system, strong intellectual property protections, and simplified bureaucracy. Similarly, New Zealand offers an efficient administrative framework where company registration can be completed within hours with minimal restrictions. Estonia is another pioneer in administrative simplification; its e-Residency program allows entrepreneurs to establish and manage a company 100% online, regardless of their physical location.
Exclusive mobility infrastructure and services
The quality of a country’s mobility infrastructure and services plays a vital role in business setup decisions. Efficient, comfortable, and safe transportation can be the difference between seamless operations and constant logistical challenges.
Time optimization and urban connectivity
The presence of well-connected airports, high-speed trains, and smartly designed roads plays a critical role in facilitating global business. A prime example is Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), which connects to over 130 destinations, making it a gateway to Asia and a major business hub. It also boasts one of the best VIP lounges for business travelers.
Efficient connections between key districts are equally important. Cities designed with business in mind, such as London, offer seamless connections between strategic areas, like the financial district of Canary Wharf and London City Airport, enhancing the ease of international business.
Safety and comfort when traveling
Punctuality and the ability to optimize travel between meetings are paramount for executives and business professionals who need to move seamlessly between engagements without logistical concerns. Having access to private transportation in New York, USA, is nearly necessary when navigating one of the cities with the worst traffic in the world. In densely populated cities like São Paulo, Brazil, or Mexico City, Mexico, premium mobility services ensure safe and comfortable transfers free from risks or disruptions.
Ease of networking
A country with the right infrastructure, such as exclusive hotels, convention centers, and business clubs, facilitates private events and strategic meetings, fostering networking and strengthening business relations. Regions like Switzerland offer venues such as Palexpo Geneva and the Grand Hotel Belvédère in Davos, where the annual World Economic Forum takes place.
Efficient private transportation services
For executives, investors, and entrepreneurs, having access to high-level executive transportation services is not a privilege but a strategic necessity when navigating the city. A private chauffeur optimizes time and routes, ensuring safety while offering a seamless experience, whether it’s for a private meeting at a restaurant or picking up a potential client at the airport. The United Arab Emirates is a clear example of how efficiency in mobility and transportation in Dubai has been a key factor in its growth as a global business hub, becoming one of the best countries to set up a company.
Economic and political stability
Evaluating a country’s economic and political stability is a key factor for investors and entrepreneurs. A region with strong institutions and a stable political and economic climate fosters confidence, enabling companies to operate with certainty and plan for the long term without the risk of sudden changes in tax or labor regulations.
Countries with growing economies and favorable policies for entrepreneurs, such as Canada and Australia, offer robust economies and transparent, stable fiscal policies. This stability allows businesses to thrive in a more predictable market, reducing the risks of instability.
Quality of life and talent acquisition
In today’s competitive world, where attracting and retaining talent is increasingly challenging, it’s no longer just about offering strong employment benefits. Professionals now place significant value on other factors, such as the quality of life in the country where they work.
To attract talent and keep employees motivated, it’s important to consider aspects like healthcare and education systems, safety, innovation, inclusion, and even the climate.
Canada stands out as one of the leaders in talent attraction, not only because of its high quality of life and diversity but also due to its efficient international recruitment programs. Initiatives like the Global Talent Stream enable companies to hire highly qualified professionals in the technology field in as little as two weeks.
Best countries to set up a business
Beyond statistics and indicators, choosing the best country to open a business has become an art, blending multiple variables. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the overall environment that fosters business growth.
Considering the factors mentioned above, some of the best countries to start a company are:
- Singapore: with highly favorable regulations, unmatched infrastructure, and strong global connectivity, Singapore is one of the best countries to invest in 2025.
- Canada: boasting a solid and stable economy and policies, Canada offers excellent facilities for attracting international talent and ranks among the countries with the highest quality of life.
- New Zealand: the bureaucratic processes to start a new business are minimal, and the country features modern, efficient infrastructure along with transparent policies that prioritize innovation.
- Estonia: known for its technologically advanced infrastructure, Estonia has largely digitalized procedures and operational processes. With favorable regulations for entrepreneurs and a growing economy, it stands out as one of the best countries for startups.
- Switzerland: offering an exceptional quality of life and unique infrastructures, Switzerland is renowned for its economic and political stability, as well as its precise banking regulations.
- Australia: with pro-business regulations, modern infrastructure, and three decades of recession-free economic stability, Australia is a key hub for business connections in the Asia-Pacific region.
Each market has its unique mobility style. At Drivania Chauffeurs we strive to provide a private transportation service that not only meets the needs of every passenger but also offers a tailored solution designed to fit each business environment and ecosystem.