Brunei
Business Expansion
made easy.

Brunei Darussalam is a Southeast Asian, oil-rich Sultanate on the northern coast of Borneo. A British protectorate until 1984, it boasts a well-educated and largely English-speaking population, excellent infrastructure, and a government intent on diversifying the economy and accelerating foreign investment. Brunei’s central location in Southeast Asia, low-tax regime, and its stable political environment offer a welcoming climate for potential investors.

The economy of Brunei is a mixture of foreign and domestic entrepreneurship, government regulation and welfare measures. Per capita GDP is among the highest in the world and substantial income from overseas investment supplements income from domestic hydrocarbon production. Bruneian citizens pay no personal income taxes and the government provides free medical services and free education through the university level. This translates to high levels of disposable income.

Crude oil and natural gas production account for approximately 65% of GDP and 95% of exports, with Japan being the primary export market. The Bruneian government is taking measures to diversify its economy away from hydrocarbon exports to other industries such as information and communications technology and halal manufacturing, permissible under Islamic law. Brunei’s trade increased in 2016, 2017 and 2018, following its regional economic integration in the ASEAN Economic Community.

Reasons to do business in Brunei include:

• Favourable tax policy
• Strong regional connections
• Political stability
• Strong oil & gas industry

Brunei has unique business and cultural considerations that shape a company’s experience in the country. To make business expansion easier, here is a list of important aspects about doing business in Brunei:

• Tax obligations
• Visa policies
• Business registration
• Employment considerations
• Business etiquette

Planning to set up or further expand in Brunei? Download our Brunei business expansion guide to learn more.