Le società holding a Hong Kong e Singapore

The report discusses the advantages of setting up holding companies in Hong Kong and Singapore, particularly in relation to investing in other Asian countries. These jurisdictions offer benefits such as efficiency, ease of doing business, protection of investors, and favorable fiscal policies.

Key Points:

• Hong Kong and Singapore as Investment Centers: Both cities have historically been centers of trade and continue to attract foreign investments despite their relatively small size compared to other Asian economies. They are considered future financial and commercial hubs of Asia.

• Economic Situation: Apart from the general benefits, Hong Kong and Singapore boast concrete advantages that keep them at the forefront of international trade and investment. They are highly ranked by the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business index, especially in protecting investors and international trade. Their transparent business environment offers foreign investors some certainty and stability.

• Logistical and Transport Infrastructure: Their ports compete globally for container traffic, highlighting their extensive logistics and transportation infrastructure.

• Qualified Workforce and English Language Usage: The use of English in commerce and with public administration ensures effective communication, surpassing many other Asian countries.

• Advantages for Holding Companies:

  • Ease of Setup and Maintenance: Holding companies can be easily established and maintained, often without a physical office, just requiring a legal address.
  • Protection of Investments: The distance between the Chinese affiliate and the holding company can provide additional protection against potential risks or liabilities related to the Chinese affiliate.
  • Tax Benefits: Lower withholding taxes on repatriated profits and reduced double taxation through bilateral agreements can be advantageous.
  • Fiscal Systems: Both regions have relatively stable and evolving fiscal systems, which can be beneficial for offshore profits.
  • Dividend Distribution: Dividends distributed from a foreign affiliate to the holding company may be subject to lower withholding taxes under bilateral agreements, such as those with China, which can reduce the tax burden.

• Specific Advantages for Holding Companies in Hong Kong and Singapore:

  • Geographical Proximity to China: Easy access to operations in the RMB currency.
  • CEPA Agreement: Access to certain restricted sectors in China via the Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
  • ASEAN Access: Easy access to ASEAN countries.
  • Incentives for SMEs: Monetary incentives for small and medium-sized enterprises, including possible exemption from annual audits.
  • Increased Double Taxation Agreements: A higher number of double taxation avoidance agreements.
  • Ease of Doing Business: High rankings in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business index.

• Tax Implications: The report also highlights the importance of understanding the implications of corporate taxes, such as the corporate income tax, value-added tax, and dividend taxes, both in Hong Kong and Singapore, as well as the impact of double taxation agreements on profit repatriation and capital gains.

Overall, the report emphasizes the strategic benefits of using holding companies in Hong Kong and Singapore for managing investments in Asia, particularly for multinational corporations seeking to navigate the complexities of the region's varying regulatory environments while optimizing tax benefits.