The 2019 Best Countries rankings are based on how global perceptions define countries in terms of a number of quantifiable characteristics. These perceptions influence decisions related to trade, travel and investment and thus have a direct impact on national economies.
The report covers a total of 80 countries. Switzerland tops the overall ranking, followed by Japan, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom and Sweden. Luxembourg is ranked 19th, but stands out in several key categories.
Most open for business
For the second consecutive year, Luxembourg is in the first place in the “open for business” subranking, a position the country also held in 2016. This high ranking is due to the country’s favourable tax environment, transparent government practices and low level of corruption. Luxembourg also has a top score for allowing trade across borders and ranks highly for its way of dealing with construction permits.
Best countries to headquarter a corporation
Today, companies are more mobile than ever and will often locate their headquarters where they perceive that conditions are most favourable. This depends on the national trade and tax policies as well as on the global economy and political and business shifts in power.
The ranking is based on a global perception-based survey covering almost 6,000 business decision makers. Luxembourg ranks 3rd best place to headquarter a corporation, after Switzerland and Canada.