Hong kong: Hong Kong and New Zealand have emerged as two of the world's 10 least complex jurisdictions for conducting business. This is attributed to their stable regulatory environments and robust digital infrastructure, as highlighted in TMF Group's latest Global Business Complexity Index (GBCI).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the 13th edition of the GBCI reveals a growing challenge in operating across borders, as global regulations diverge and reporting obligations expand. The TMF Group's report analyzed 81 jurisdictions, representing over 90 percent of the global economy, ranking them from most complex to least complex for business operations. The study evaluated 292 indicators across areas such as accounting and tax, legal entity management, and employment requirements.

TMF Group's Chief Executive Officer, Mark Weil, emphasized the impact of global political fragmentation and economic spread on businesses, which are increasingly adding jurisdictions to their supply chains. This diversification adds complexity to governance and introduces more regulatory uncertainties.

India was identified as the 13th most complex jurisdiction, primarily due to the challenges arising from its federal structure, where central and state regulations intersect. Despite ongoing reforms potentially increasing complexity in the short term, TMF Group suggests these could create long-term opportunities for foreign investors through more business-friendly policies.

In the medium-to-low complexity category, Japan ranked 54th, benefiting from initiatives to attract foreign investment and skilled talent. Taiwan placed 50th, supported by digital transformation efforts and investment-friendly programs, despite facing regulatory and geopolitical pressures. Singapore, at 47th, gained from advanced digitalization, international accounting standards alignment, a competitive corporate tax regime, and a comprehensive network of double taxation treaties.

Conversely, Latin American and European Union economies feature prominently among the 10 most complex jurisdictions. Greece remained the world's most complex jurisdiction for the third year running, owing to frequent legislative changes and ongoing regulatory reforms. Mexico ranked second due to shifting regulations and administrative requirements, while Brazil was third, burdened by heavy compliance demands and a multi-layered tax system.