Worlds top hubs for global business

Nowadays, global business is where it’s all at, but how to decide on which global destination is best?

Entrepreneurs, investors, global travellers and top expatriate talent must consider a range of options when deciding on their next international move, with specific, well-informed surveys by those who known the world business environment happy to help. One 2017 study stood out, simply by compiling a ranking of world countries which attracted the largest amounts of foreign direct investment. The survey was published under the title of the Global Exchange Index. Attributes taken into consideration were business environment, the welcome given to foreign investment and the protection of private property as well as basics such as cost of living, lifestyle quality and the expatriate experience as a whole, including the ease of doing business.

It’s no surprise that Singapore headed the distinguished list for its position as one the world’s richest countries and its commitment to eradicating corruption and the greening of its environment. Unlike some very successful countries, Singapore actually welcomes expatriate professionals, rewarding their talent with high salaries, amenities and easy transportation around the region. Switzerland’s position as a crucial global business hub for finance is well-known, carefully built over several centuries due to the country’s lack of natural resources. Skills are its strength and always have been, with 25 per cent of its small population of 8.5 million foreign born but more than happy to live and work in a stable, economically well-managed, civilised country. It came second in the survey, with property rights and infrastructure highly ranked.

The Netherlands’ ranking as third reflects its openness to trade, dating from its 17th century fame as a trading nation and colonial power, the echoes of which still reverberate in the country. Inward investment is huge, as is Dutch outward investment, and its commercial attraction is spurred by a good number of international tax treaties. It’s also a strategic gateway to several dozen European markets, making it a great centre for multinational companies and also for their expatriate employees.

For the seriously adventurous expatriate professional, China is a unique, fascinating experience in every possible way. Since it opened up in 1978, it’s worked hard to become the world’s fourth largest beneficiary from foreign direct investment, helped along by its perceived position as an export powerhouse. It’s a rare mix of state control and a highly competitive free market, and its previous hatred of foreigners begun in the mid -18th century has turned to an appreciation of their innovative talents, especially in the tech sector.