Doing Business in Indonesia VS Seychelles – A Comparison
Entrepreneurs and investors often face a tough decision when choosing the ideal destination for their business ventures. Both Indonesia and Seychelles offer unique advantages, making the decision even more challenging. While Indonesia is known for its competitive business landscape, high quality of life, and lower costs for setting up smaller businesses, Seychelles attracts attention with its tax-friendly policies and reputation as a global financial hub.
In this article, we’ll explore the key factors that differentiate Indonesia and Seychelles as business destinations, helping you make an informed decision on where to establish or expand your business in Asia or beyond.
Key Comparison Points
Business Environment
- Indonesia: Indonesia offers a stable political environment with government policies aimed at fostering economic growth and supporting foreign investments.
- Seychelles: Seychelles is politically stable and has a strong legal framework, but its small economy may pose challenges for large-scale business operations.
Taxation
- Indonesia: Indonesia has a corporate tax rate of 22% and offers tax incentives for certain industries, including manufacturing and renewable energy.
- Seychelles: Seychelles is a tax-friendly destination with no capital gains tax and 15% low corporate tax rates, making it a preferred choice for offshore businesses.
Ease of Company Incorporation
- Indonesia: Indonesia has streamlined its incorporation process, supported by digital infrastructure and government initiatives aimed at simplifying regulatory requirements.
- Seychelles: Seychelles offers a quick and straightforward incorporation process, particularly for international business companies (IBCs), with minimal regulatory hurdles.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
- Indonesia: Indonesia provides affordable operational costs, with reasonably priced office spaces and living expenses, making it ideal for small and medium-sized enterprises.
- Seychelles: Seychelles has higher living and operational costs, primarily due to its reliance on imports and its positioning as a luxury destination.
Access to Markets
- Indonesia: Indonesia’s location in Southeast Asia provides excellent global connectivity and access to major trade agreements, including ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA).
- Seychelles: Seychelles benefits from its strategic location in the Indian Ocean, offering access to African, Asian, and Middle Eastern markets, though its small domestic market may be a limitation.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference:
Factor |
Indonesia |
Seychelles |
Business Environment |
Stable political environment with strong government support for foreign investments. |
Politically stable with a robust legal framework but limited market size. |
Corporate Tax Rate |
22% |
15% (for businesses under normal tax structure; may vary depending on the business structure). |
Capital Gains Tax |
Applicable |
Not applicable |
Ease of Incorporation |
Streamlined process with digital infrastructure and government support. |
Quick and simple incorporation process, especially for IBCs. |
Business Costs |
Affordable operational and living costs. |
Higher costs due to reliance on imports and luxury positioning. |
Market Access |
Excellent global connectivity and access to ASEAN trade agreements. |
Strategic location with access to African, Asian, and Middle Eastern markets. |

Benefits of Choosing 3E Accounting
Whether you’re looking to register a company in Indonesia or start a business in Indonesia, 3E Accounting offers unparalleled expertise and support. From seamless incorporation to comprehensive business solutions, our team ensures a hassle-free experience for entrepreneurs and investors.
Explore our Indonesia company incorporation services package to understand how we can assist you. For more guidance, check out our guide on registering a company in Indonesia. Ready to take the next step? 3E Accounting is here to help. Contact us today to get started.
Ready to Expand into Indonesia? Choose 3E Accounting Today!
Stay Secure, Stay Successful With 3E Accounting Services
Contact Us Now
Frequently Asked Questions
Indonesia offers lower operational and living costs, better infrastructure, and government-backed incentives, making it ideal for small and medium enterprises. Read more in this guide to starting a business in Indonesia.
Indonesia has implemented digital systems for registration, while Seychelles provides quick incorporation, especially for offshore companies. See this company registration in Indonesia guide for more.
You can contact 3E Accounting to receive expert assistance in registering and managing your company in Indonesia.
Abigail Yu oversees executive leadership at 3E Accounting Group, leading operations, IT solutions, public relations, and digital marketing to drive business success. She holds an honors degree in Communication and New Media from the National University of Singapore and is highly skilled in crisis management, financial communication, and corporate communications.