LKN Global

Albania (top)

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

Albania's infrastructure and inheritance a poor highway system from the Communist period seeks foreign investment to assist development. Currently a major road-building project costing more than €70 million is underway. The tourist industry has potential to expand with foreign investment .
The government's plans to strengthen the business environment especially for investment purposes. The privatization agenda is gaining momentum with almost all small and medium enterprises having been sold off. All commercial banks have been placed under private management. Privatization of the state telecommunications firms has also been approved .

Austria (top)

Austria is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

The Austrian economy has consistently performed better than the EU average over the past ten years. Growth has been broadly based, driven by both consumer spending and investment. Foreign investment and market expansion are welcomed to continue this growth .

Tourism remains the country's largest single industry and biggest foreign-exchange earner. The Austrian economy has consistently performed better than the EU average over the past ten years. Growth is broadly based, driven by both consumer spending and investment. The country's export-oriented manufacturing sector is a major economic driver and seeks further expansion.

Belarus (top)

Belarus has a small oil industry and seeks foreign investment to assist its development. Although it does not transit nearly as much Russian natural gas as does Ukraine, its importance as a transit state is growing. In 2007, the country agreed to a new 5-year deal that doubles the price of gas during the year and will bring gas prices in line with European countries by 2011 .

Forestry and agriculture, notably potatoes, grain, peat and cattle, are important sources of income and employment. Engineering, machine tools, agricultural equipment, chemicals, motor vehicles and some consumer durables such as watches, televisions and radios are all prominent state-run industries. Foreign investment is needed to assist the development.

Belgium (top)

Bosnia-Herzegovina (top)

The industrial sector is expanding briskly. Most of the country's larger foreign investors are now reporting profits after encountering obstacles in the first few years. The most dynamic industries are chemicals, furniture, rubber and plastics. Bosnia's main exports are wood, paper, metals and metal products. World prices for metals have surged, helping to boost exports of these industries . The country seeks foreign investment to assist further expansion.

Bulgaria (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member is of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

In 2006, 63.5% of the total population completed secondary school and 10.9% had completed a higher education creating a large Bulgarian skilled workforce population. Additionally, the country has lower wage costs than most of the E.U. making it attractive to expanding foreign companies .

A pipeline connecting the Bulgarian Black Sea port of Burgas with the Albanian Adriatic port of Vlore is under construction and expected to be operational by 2011 . The project is estimated to cost US$1.2 billion. Bulgaria is also increasing its natural gas transit capacity. Presently, Russian gas passes through the country but the country could become a transit base for Iranian gas in the future. The government is pressing ahead with plans for a €6 billion nuclear power plant on the Danube to replace capacity lost by EU-ordered closures of reactors from the communist era .

Tourism holds promise, especially sites along the Black Sea coast. The EU has also earmarked €25 million for the technological modernization of small and medium-sized enterprises. This creates opportunity for foreign companies looking to expand in tourist and technology .

Agriculture accounts for 6.6% of GDP. Bulgaria has the potential to become a major agricultural supplier for all of Central Europe, but its farms need foreign investment to assist further development .

Croatia (top)

In 2005, Croatia implemented an Association Agreement with the EU. The country expects to join the EU before 2012.

It is a member is of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

The service sector is the largest sector of the economy. Generally, tourism contributes almost half of all foreign exchange earnings. The country has thousands of kilometers of coastline but poor infrastructure. Tourism could still benefit significantly if the country enters the EU. This creates opportunity for foreign investment .

The private sector accounts for 60% of the economy, including virtually the entire banking system, and foreign direct investment has been strong .This has created an attractive business environment for further market expansion and foreign investment.

Cyprus (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

Cyprus is rich in human capital, with large numbers of Greek-Cypriots having advanced degrees from foreign universities. This is attractive for companies looking to expand across borders .

Cyprus' thriving offshore sector is a valuable source of foreign exchange. The tax system is being modernized and a uniform corporate tax rate of 10% has been introduced, which implies a reduction in the taxation of profits. The island has more than 32,000 registered offshore companies and approximately half of them are active. Initiatives are underway to strengthen financial sector regulation and supervision, and align them to EU standards. The country also has the fourth largest ship register in the world .

The manufacturing sector accounts for 9% of the GDP includes food and beverages, clothing, furniture and metal products. Other industrial sectors, which continue to expand, include printing and publishing, plastics, chemical and pharmaceutical products .

Czech Republic (top)

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

Economic growth continues, leading to further strides toward convergence with the EU-15. Past reforms, the accession to the EU and expanding capacity in the automotive industry have driven these gains. Trade performance is good with double-digit growth in exports in recent years .To continue further expand the country seeks foreign investment.

In an effort to support manufacturing operations and to encourage more FDI, the government cut the corporate tax rate and reduced depreciation periods. The labor code was simplified along with a flat personal income tax change of 15%. Temporary changes in the tax system are planned for 2010 .

The Czech Republic's agricultural sector is highly productive and the country has taken advantage of membership of the EU to sell to the international market. The country is self-sufficient in wheat, barley, vegetables, potatoes and fruit. There are extensive forests offering substantial scope for timber development. This creates opportunity for foreign investment.

Denmark (top)

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

The country enjoys some of the highest living standards of all Western European countries and has one of the most equal distributions of income. Taxes were cut in 2008 and 2009 and the banking system has been recapitalized. These moves were intended to support the country's flagging domestic demand .

The country maintains an "open door" policy towards oil companies. Under this policy, oil companies are invited to bid for licenses in specified acreage and are not required to commit to drilling wells before seismic work has been completed. As part of EU efforts to create a single market for energy, Denmark has completely liberalized its market for electricity .

Denmark's total oil production is about 313,000 barrels per day. The discovery of new fields have helped to bolster output. This has created opportunity for foreign investment .

The government plans to boost spending on infrastructure. Improvements in the subway systems in major cities during 2008-2012 are expected to cost US$2.4 billion. In the manufacturing sector, engineering, food processing, pharmaceuticals and brewing are among Denmark's most successful industries. Biotechnology is also making strides but even more important is the country's elaborate infrastructure for information technology .

Agriculture consists of thousands of mainly small farms supplying pig meat products, dairy goods and cereals such as wheat and barley. Farmers are bound by special legislation requiring safe storage and treatment of wastes. This creates the desire to do business and expand foreign market share.

Estonia (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

Estonia is positioning itself as a major transit centre for oil exports from Russia and the newly independent states to Europe. The country's ports at Tallinn and Muuga have become major terminals for the export of petroleum products from the former Soviet Union. Ease of transportation make the country attractive for market expansion.

The manufacturing sector is sizeable, accounting for 16.6% of GDP in 2009. It depends on well-established engineering, machine-building and textile industries, along with consumer goods and food-processing industries. Estonia's close ties with Scandinavian countries provide ready-made markets for some of its products, as well as a source of capital and technological know-how .

Estonia's banking system is financially sound however the euro adoption still remains a key objective. This creates an attractive business environment.

More than three million tourists visit the country each year, a majority of them from Finland. This creates opportunity to attract other foreign countries to participate in the tourism industry .

Estonia has substantial deposits of minerals, including phosphate and oil shale, as well as extensive forest resources. The latter benefit greatly from Scandinavian investment and should soon provide a substantial resource base for development of competitive industries in the fields of timber, paper and paper products. Foreign investment could be used to fully development all of the industries,

Finland (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

Various policy changes have improved the business environment in the past few years. Tax cuts have helped sustain demand, which include corporate taxes and income taxes. This creates a more attractive business environment.

By 2015, Finland will have the largest percentage of its population over the age of 65, which is 20% of its population, of any EU member state. This creates opportunity foreign companies who target this demographic .

Tourism is an underdeveloped part of the service sector and seeks foreign investment. Tourist activities account for approximately 8.2% of total employment. The government plans to channel resources into this industry over the next several years with the goal of developing a year-round appeal. Officials hope to boost the sector's share of GDP by another 3 percentage points by 2013 .

Finland is currently the only EU member that is expanding its nuclear capacity. It plans to bring a new 1,600-MW reactor online .

Helsinki dropped its restrictions on migrant workers. Estonians, who enjoy a language advantage over other recent EU entrants, are likely to be the biggest beneficiaries.

In manufacturing, forestry accounts for almost 30% of exports and a sizeable portion of GDP. Finland claims around a third of Western Europe's total capacity in the forestry industry and is the world's second largest exporter of paper products behind Canada .

The electronics industry is dominated by Nokia which contributes more than a quarter of all exports and a significant portion of GDP. Most of the manufacturing sector is strongly oriented toward research and development and spends substantial sums in this endeavor, which opens opportunity for foreign investment .

France (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

France has the largest Muslim population in Europe. Therefore, France is pushing hard for closer ties between the EU and Middle East countries . It is also the largest country in Western Europe and lies at the heart of the continent, which makes creates much opportunity for foreign opportunity.

Manufacturing contributes about three-quarters of total exports of goods and services. The manufacturing sector's greatest strengths are in motor vehicles, pharmaceuticals, transport equipment and aerospace. The country's two major carmakers are Peugeot and Renault.

France is the EU's largest producer of cereals. Farms are small however the soil quality is usually excellent. The country also grows soft fruits, cereals, maize, root vegetables, sugar beet, cattle and poultry, and is famed for its wine production .

The new Law for the Modernization of the Economy raises tax exemptions to 50% of the cost of innovation projects, creating the most attractive fiscal regime in Europe for R&D. New cuts on local business taxes are under consideration. These would encourage investment decisions in 2010. Also to strengthen labor market performance, subsidies are now offered to employers who hire people on protracted income support .

France has about 341 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of proven natural gas reserves. The country is also the world's largest nuclear power generator on a per capita basis, and ranks second in total installed nuclear capacity, behind the USA. Due to the lack of domestic oil sources, the French government has encouraged the use of nuclear power as an alternative energy source to oil where possible .This creates foreign investment and market expansion opportunities.

Georgia (top)

The country is a member of the WTO (World Trade Organization) membership and has normal access to US markets. Georgia is one of the smallest but most influential states to have emerged from the former USSR.

With an increase in foreign investment, Georgia's economy has performed impressively for several years. Structural reforms, including the privatization of state-owned enterprises and further legal, fiscal, and financial reforms, have been speedily introduced.

Roughly 150 miles of the pipeline corridor extending from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Turkey will pass through Georgia. This corridor will include both the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline and the Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum natural gas pipeline, which was completed in July 2007. Analysts expect these pipelines to become two of the primary conduits for Caspian Sea region oil and natural gas exports over the next decade. Georgia will be paid transit tariffs by the pipeline's operators and will receive a small percentage of fuel passing through the Republic .

Personal income taxes were cut in 2009 and social benefits were increased. New tax incentives for private businesses are also being introduced. Progress on banking sector reform has been substantial and the program for privatizing large-scale public enterprises is now largely finished. Structural reforms to improve the efficiency of government spending should help to bolster the business environment.

The Supsa oil pipeline brings in US$8 million a year in transit fees. As the Caspian oil and gas industry moves into the production phase, the volume of equipment and other imports into the region will grow. Georgia also has deposits of manganese and coal, and a number of oil refineries. Recent oil exploration has shown some promise .There is opportunity for foreign investment that is needed to assist in further development .

A wide range of crops are produced, including tea, tobacco, citrus fruits and flowers. Wine production and quality has increased and presently amounts to around 50 million bottles per year .

Germany (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

The federal government is committed rebuild eastern Germany therefore transfers roughly €80 billion in welfare and reconstruction funding to the east every year until 2019. This puts a burden on the government but creates the need for foreign investment .

Germany is a world leader in developing renewable energy. In 2000, the government set a goal to double the proportion of renewable energy sources by 2010. By 2050, half of Germany’s entire energy demand should be met by solar, wind, biomass, hydro, and geothermic sources, according the German government .

Germany's manufacturing sector accounts for nearly 23% of GDP. Output began to rise in the fourth quarter of 2009 as exports strengthened. The sector is dominated by large companies producing motor vehicles, precision engineering, brewing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and heavy metal products. Automotive producers employ one in every seven workers .

An overhaul of the income tax system is expected in 2010. The changes will reduce the overall tax burden, along with tax cuts.

Germany has the largest proportion of foreigners of any country in the EU, which accounts for 9% of the population but has traditionally refused to see itself as a place where migrants settle. New laws will make it easier for skilled immigrants to enter the country and get work permits .

Gibraltar (top)

In recent years, Gibraltar has built up a respectable finance centre that now accounts for one-fifth of the economy. The government pins its hopes for the future on the financial services sector, which has been growing rapidly. Growth in the technology sector is also promising, with a number of large betting and gaming companies taking advantage of the low-tax regime and good telecommunications facilities .

Foreign investment in Gibraltar is actively promoted by the government, largely to create job opportunities. Tax concessions are available to light manufacturers who intend to export from Gibraltar. Any corporation with a development aid license wasgranted by the governor for a project that will benefit Gibraltar's economy and is exempt from paying income tax on profit earned from the development, until the total gains from the development exceed the percentage of approved capital expenditure .

About eight million people visit Gibraltar in a typical year, many of them arriving via cruise liners. Spanish visitors often arrive for shopping or for short breaks, though others may be motivated more by tax evasion than duty-free shopping. A number of large betting and gaming companies have taking advantage of the country's low-tax regime and good telecommunications facilities .

Impressive port facilities exist, so that shipping and tourism are the mainstays of the economy. The colony's proximity to the North African coast is only one reason for the 3,000-4,000 merchant vessels that dock every year. There are also numerous bunkering and support services .

Greece (top)

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

The Greek economy has outperformed that of most other industrialized countries during this decade. Per capita income is now around 90% of the EU-15 average. In 2006, the government finally opened the sector to foreign investment by approving a €1.2 billion investment by a British company which plans an integrated resort on Crete. Tax cuts for business, new investment incentives and growth in southeast Europe have spurred investment .

Under pressure from Brussels, the government has introduced a series of reforms aimed mainly at meeting the criteria for Eurozone members. Officials have cut tax rates for small companies and reduced taxes on undistributed corporate profits. Personal income taxes were also cut. The new rates will make Greece more competitive with low-tax countries in central and southeast Europe as a destination for FDI. The authorities have also simplified business licensing procedures for industrial enterprises, made some reforms in the operation of state-owned firms and plan to accelerate the pace of privatization .

Agriculture employs a quarter of the population but accounts for only a small portion of GDP. The main products are tree fruits, vegetables, olives, tobacco, sugar, rice and wheat. Nursery products, frozen fish, tree nuts and wood products are among the fastest growing industries in this sector. The country's main agricultural exports are fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, especially canned peaches and tomato products, olive oil, durum wheat and tobacco .

The fertility rate is one of the lowest in the world and the work force is ageing rapidly. This creates opportunity for foreign companies with this demographic as its target market .

Hungary (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

GDP per capita was 69% of the EU average in 2006, which measured is purchasing power parity terms, up from 59% in 2000.This indicates that the economy is growing and is an important asset to the EU .

Services, including financial services, advertising and retailing, are all becoming more competitive and customer friendly. More than 70% of the country's manufactured exports come from foreign-owned plants set up by IBM, Philips and others. In the automotive industry, major companies including Ford, General Motors, Audi, and Suzuki have established multi-million dollar plants .

As part of the agricultural industry, the wine industry, with the help of foreign investors, has made real progress and gained market share in Western Europe. Agricultural exports have been rising and presently amount to well over €3 billion.

Hungary is the largest producer of crude oil in Central Europe. Presently, the country is producing about 45,000 barrels per day (bbl/d). Most of this comes from small fields in amounts less than 2,000 bbl/d. Oil reserves are approximately 127 million barrels. Oil companies have increased domestic exploration, estimating that only 60% of the country has been thoroughly explored, which creates foreign opportunity .

Iceland (top)

Ireland (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

The “Irish miracle” was built on the country's low-tax regime and other advantages such as English language and well-trained workers. These elements will continue to be positive features in attracting foreign investment. Dublin has implemented tax cuts of €680 million and an additional €880 million in social welfare spending .

The economy has performed better than any other OECD country throughout most of this decade. Especially during 2000-2007, government spending rose steadily with a 40% increase in public sector employment .

The government launched an expensive, seven-year program to improve infrastructure and facilities. The government has plans for large-scale investment in infrastructure throughout the remainder of this decade .

Italy (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

Italy is Europe's third largest oil importer. There are three main oil-producing fields in southern Italy and other fields located offshore in the Adriatic and in Sicily. There are large oil refining facilities along the Mediterranean coast and on Mediterranean islands, capable of processing a wide range of crude oils from North Africa and the Persian Gulf .

The agricultural sector is small but well diversified, producing soft fruits and vegetables, as well as wheat, olives and citrus products for export. The most fertile areas are in the north. This creates opportunity for market expansion, especially in the northern regions of the country.

There are relatively few large private companies, but those that exist play a major role in the economy. Example of such companies are Fiat, which is controlled by the Agnelli family; Pirelli, controlled by the Pirelli family; and Fininvest, controlled by the former Prime Minister, Berlusconi. More than 90% of the industrial sector is made up of small and medium-sized firms .

The government has pushed through limited reforms to the country's pension system, such as a new law to rise the retirement age from 57 years to 60 years. This should save the treasury about 0.7% of GDP per year and creates more of a labor pool and more possible opportunities for foreign investment .

Latvia (top)

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

Agriculture is centered on the cultivation of crops such as potatoes, cereals and fodder crops, along with dairy farming and accounts for 15% of its GDP .

Latvia has a good resource base and transport system with opportunity for foreign investment. The government believes that banking, information technology, tourism, and other services will also provide plenty of opportunities for growth.

Liechtenstein (top)

Liechtenstein is regarded as one of the most stable and affluent societies in Europe. The country participates in a customs union with Switzerland and is a member of the European Economic Area.
The country has low business taxes with the maximum tax rate being 18%. Easy incorporation rules have induced at least 75,000 holding or so-called "letter box companies" to establish nominal offices in Liechtenstein, providing 30% of state revenues .This creates attraction of foreign investment .

Industry is heavily export oriented and accounts for 47% of its GDP. The most important activities are mechanical engineering, plant construction, manufacturing of precision instruments, dental technology and food-processing. Many firms operate in highly specialised market niches. The emphasis is less on the production of mass and inexpensive goods, and more on the development of high quality, high-tech products. Liechtenstein is also one of the world's biggest producers of false teeth .

Farming is important despite the relative lack of available land, with wheat, barley, corn, potatoes, livestock and dairy products being grown mainly on small plots of land. The labor force numbers about 31,000, of which 19,000 are foreigners. Most of these workers commute from Austria, Germany or Switzerland on a daily basis .

Liechtenstein's principal activity is the provision of financial services. The financial sector accounts for 30% of GDP, but only about 14% of employment. Services offered include, in particular, private asset management,
international asset structuring, investment funds and insurance solutions .

Lithuania (top)

Luxembourg (top)

Macedonia (top)

Officials are anxious to attract more foreign investment. They have managed to boost the growth of credit to small and medium businesses. The programs to improve roads, power, water and other infrastructure,mainly through internationally-funded projects, could lay the basis for sustainable future growth.

Business confidence indicators have improved and credit rose sharply. Manufactured exports have increased, owing to a brisk growth in steel and other metals exports. The government plans to increase spending on infrastructure to improve roads, electricity and irrigation networks. Rail transport was privatized in 2008.This creates and ease and opportunity for foreign investment and markets to enter .

Reforms introduced in recent years include the strengthening of customs and tax administration, labor market liberalization, introduction of a one-stop shop for registering companies, and privatization of electricity distribution. Other reforms include licensing requirements, better contract enforcement, a new banking law to strengthen supervision and attract foreign banking and liberalization of telecommunications. There have been reductions in personal and corporate tax rates, selective cuts to the VAT, and labor taxes reductions. In the future, a flat tax regime is to be introduced.
Important agricultural products include wheat, corn, maize, barley, tobacco, fruits and vegetables. Dairy farming is also significant. Farming is expected to grow in importance as the transition to a market economy gains momentum.

Malta (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

The semi-conductor industry is the most important part of manufacturing, typically accounting for about three-quarters of the sector's exports. The economy has also enjoyed productivity gains, a rise in foreign investment and some measure of export diversification. Officials hope to convert the island into a center for trans-shipment throughout the Mediterranean.

The country's main earner of foreign exchange is tourism. In most years the sector accounts for 20-30% of GDP. About one million people visit the island in a typical year and an estimated 35,000 people, which accounts for one-tenth of the island's total population, are directly or indirectly employed in tourism .

Agriculture is the second most important foreign exchange earner after tourism with exports of fruits, vegetables, wheat, grapes and horticultural products, especially cut flowers .

Foreign investors are attracted by the tax regime which allows income tax on dividends to be offset against corporate tax. The government cut the tax burden creating more attraction for foreign investment .

Moldova (top)

The economy depends heavily on agriculture. Crops include fruits, vegetables, wine and tobacco. Farm output is increasing and creating opportunity for market expansion .

Light industry consists mainly of textiles and consumer goods. Low labor costs give these firms a competitive advantage. In addition, there is a modest chemical industry. There is some evidence of a shift of resources and employment into manufacturing where low labor costs offer a competitive advantage.

Corporate income taxes have been reduced and an amnesty has been granted. These moves were designed to encourage inflows of FDI. Other reforms aimed at improving the investment climate are underway .

Moldova reneged on a peace deal with Russia that would have allowed Russian “peacekeeping” troops to remain in the breakaway province of Transdniestria until 2020 .This creates improved foreign relations, thereby making the country more attractive for foreign investment and market expansion.

Netherlands (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

Rotterdam is Europe’s largest port, handling more than twice as much cargo as its nearest European rival, Antwerp. The port’s industrial and distribution activities generate annual added value equivalent to around 10% of Dutch GDP. There are also a large number of coastal and international vessels providing cargo services, and an important ship servicing and repair industry exists around Rotterdam .

The manufacturing sector makes up 2.0% of GDP. Manufacturing is dominated by industries such as engineering, vehicle manufacture, electrical and electronic products, chemicals, aerospace and petrochemicals, all of international importance. Investment initiatives have attracted a wide variety of foreign firms in recent years, including Polaroid, Esso, Dow Chemical, Fuji, Nissan, Engelhardt, Amsco, Thorn EMI and Rank Xerox .

Dutch businesses depend greatly on international trade and as the performance of the external sector improves, business confidence strengthens. Changes in labor laws in 2007 increased flexibility and allowed more overtime hours. The government plans to tax wealthier pensioners who retire early as part of its effort to encourage people to work longer .This creates a wealthier, more developed country, therefore more attractive to foreign investment.

Norway (top)

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

The country also enjoys a strong work ethic, as reflected in unusually high participation rates for men and women. Higher oil prices have stimulated a sharp acceleration in investment, boosting demand for goods and services in the mainland economy.

The country is the world’s third largest exporter of oil and gas and could play a crucial role in meeting Europe’s energy supplies. Norway's oil and natural gas extraction sector represents about 20% of the country's GDP and employs a similar proportion of the workforce .

Poland (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member is of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

Poland is enjoying a pattern of balanced growth, rising employment, and a small current account deficit. Large transfers from the EU and greater integration with EU trading partners help to boost investment and create attractiveness for other foreign investors and seekers of market expansion.

Inward investment is changing the landscape of the manufacturing sector. Since 2000, Poland has become a major producer of high-end consumer electronics. The country already produces about 20% of Europe’s flat-screen monitors and the government estimates that by 2010 around 75% of Europe’s television sets will be Polish-made .

Poland’s location in the center of Europe gives it ready access to the rest of the continent. This creates great opportunity for transportation investment from foreign companies. Poland's long-term attractions to foreign investors continue to hold appeal. It is a very large and underdeveloped market with a solid export base and labour costs that only a quarter of those in West Europe.

As stated above, Poland's transportation system seeks foreign investment to assist in the development of its roads. The number of cars on the road more than doubled between 1991 and 2007 but the country has only 340 kilometers of expressway. With EU aid set to rise from 2% of GDP to 4%, the government has ambitious plans for improvements in transportation. Construction of more than 500 kilometers of expressways and roadways is already under way .

Poland has the largest coal reserves in the EU and investment is needed to development the industry.

Portugal (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

The main agricultural products include citrus fruits, olives, wines and vegetables. Cork is grown for export, and the country has an important fishery industry. They benefit from the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) with funds that are channeled mainly to meat, dairy and cereal production. The CAP combines a direct subsidy payment for crops and land which may be cultivated with price support mechanisms, including guaranteed minimum prices, import tariffs and quotas on certain goods from outside the EU.

Tourism is an especially important sector, accounting for 10% of employment. To achieve this goal the industry is planning to diversify into new regions and create new attractions. Tourism in Portugal is less expensive than in most of West Europe. Inexpensive abor and unrestricted access to the EU market attracts foreign investment.

The government has made privatization a priority. The government has been working with Spain towards integrating the two countries' electricity markets in order to create a regional market. It plans to sell a number of companies, generating €2.4 billion in revenues. The sales include TAP-Air Portugal and the country's leading oil and gas utility. To strengthen its banking system, the government has raised the coverage limit for deposit insurance limits, recapitalized various banks and guaranteed their borrowing .

Portugal's markets are more tightly regulated than in most other EU member states. Officials have launched a program to relax these regulations and to harmonize them with the regulations of trading partners. New financial initiatives have also been introduced. The tax system is being simplified and the base for corporate taxes is being broadened.

Romania (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

With proven reserves of 500 million barrels, Romania is largest oil producer in Central and Eastern Europe. Romania dominates South-eastern Europe's downstream petroleum industry. Several of its refineries were privatized in 2005 and 2006. Capacity far exceeds domestic demand for refined petroleum products, allowing the country to export a wide range of oil products and petrochemicals .

Romania is central and eastern Europe's largest producer of natural gas. The country has natural gas reserves of 22.2 trillion cubic feet and a sizeable domestic market. A number of pipeline projects are planned to increase natural gas transport capacity .

A flat tax of 16% on personal income and profits has been implemented in order to spur investment and draw much of the country's sizeable black economy which was estimated at 40-50% of GDP into the legal sphere. Employers' contribution to social security, healthcare and unemployment were cut in 2007 .

The manufacturing sector makes up 22.0% of GDP. Dacia, owned by Renault, and Hewlett-Packard have experienced unexpected success in foreign investment . Therefore creating opportunity for other companies to invest and expand market share.

Russia (top)

With its large population and economic size, Russia is the 11th largest economy worldwide . This creates an attraction for foreign investment and market expansion.

Russis is a member of the WTO (World Trade Organization). With its strong economic growth and an increasing retail market the country has become attractive to foreign investment.

Until the end of 2011, the government plans to use a state aid package, which involves loans to banks and companies, to stabilize the economy and increase growth. The country also seeks foreign investment to assist in development.

There are massive mineral and forest resources with iron ore, copper, aluminum, manganese, salt and precious metals all being produced, though facilities are in need of modernization and foreign investment. Raw materials, such as oil, natural gas, and metals, make up more than two-thirds of all export revenues.

Oil and gas account for 65% of exports. Russia is the world's 8th largest exporter of oil. It has proven oil reserves of 79 billion barrels. New fields will produce almost all of Russia's annual oil growth in the next five years and will likely produce more than half of the country's oil in 2020. Russia holds the world's largest natural gas reserves, with 1,529 trillion cubic feet. The country is the world's largest natural gas producer, as well as the world's largest exporter .

Serbia and Montenegro (top)

Industrial output in Serbia has been expanding by 4-5% per year. Fiat announced a large investment in the country and other carmakers have been considering the same. The Serbian government is boosting its investments in the railway and road system and is accepting foreign investment to create of transportation to made the country more attractive to market expansion .

The entry of foreign banks is transforming Serbia's financial sector. Major foreign banks have agreed to rollover their exposure in Serbia to keep all branches well capitalized and make the country more attractive to foreign investment.

In Montenegro, tourism is expanding rapidly with strong investor support. The country continuously seeks more foreign investment.

Agriculture is the largest sector of both economies, with fruits, vegetables and tobacco of particular importance .

Slovakia (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

It is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

Bratislava passed a new language law that promotes the use of the Slovakian language in public .

The government has introduced a number of reforms to improve labor market operation. The statutory age for retirement of men has been raised to 62 years while women will have the same by 2014. Pension discounts have been imposed for early retirement. Changes in the labor code have simplified employment procedures. As a result, employment rates of older workers has increased therefore contributing to the wealth and development of the country .

The main attraction for investors is the combination of low wage rates and guaranteed access to the EU. Slovakian wages are just a fifth of those in Western Europe. Slovakia has been the recent inflow of foreign direct investment, much of it from carmakers such as Peugeot, Kia, and Volkswagen.

A reduction in the VAT has been introduced along with higher income taxes for high earners. The minimum wage was raised by 10% in late 2006 and further increases are expected in the medium term. Reforms of the labor market are planned in 2010 with the intention of improving labor flexibility .

It is estimated that about 25% of the natural gas consumed in West Europe transits through Slovakia, which represents about 70% of the Russian natural gas exported to Western Europe. Slovakia's natural gas market is being liberalized in stages.

Tourism accounts for 12.3% of total employment. The industry is expected to see growth of around 2.7% in 2009 with a better performance in subsequent years .

The country's agricultural sector accounts for 3.4% of GDP. Major crops are grains, oilseeds, potatoes, sugar beets, fruits and vegetables . This sector seeks foreign investment for further development.

Slovenia (top)

Spain (top)

Sweden (top)

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

Sweden is a leader in mobile phone usage and development of the mobile internet. Biotechnology has become an important emerging industry that seeks foreign investment. Also, Sweden is one of seven EU countries to have completely opened its electricity market to competition in compliance with EU rules.

The country's automotive trio: Volvo, Saab and Scania, have reorganized, consolidated some operations and sold off others in order to better compete in international markets. In 2009, the government provided aid worth US$3.5 billion in loans, loan guarantees and funding for research, however further foreign in sought out.

A opportunity for foreign markets targeting the young demographic for employment or investment purposes has been created recently. Sweden's working-age population will begin to decline by the end of this decade, reducing the potential rate of growth to around 2% per year. Youth unemployment is one of the highest in Western Europe and is rising as the overall number of jobless people grows .

An ambitious reform of the labor market began in 2007. Labor income taxes are to be cut substantially, which is approximately 1.3% of GDP, in an effort to boost employment and household income .

Switzerland (top)

Switzerland is a Tax Haven. It was ranked 7th of 175 countries by the World Bank in 2006 for its ease of paying taxes. The government has no plans to change its taxation terms, therefore making it attractive for businesses. The total tax rate paid by businesses is 24.9% percentage of their profit, which is the lowest in Europe .

GDP per capita is one of the highest in the western world. The financial sector accounts for almost half of all growth . Also tourism, especially winter sports, is one of the most important parts of the economy. This creates an opportunity for foreign companies in this industry.

A goal of policymakers is to raise productivity. They also hope to increase female participation in the labor force in the future. The purpose is to boost the country’s currently low rate of potential economic growth and to compensate for the slow rate of increase in the work force. Companies who wish to help improve the education of women are encouraged to invest.

Several Swiss multinationals, particularly in pharmaceutical and precision engineering, are among the world's leaders but generate the bulk of their profits outside the country. The overseas investments of these huge companies exceed the size of the domestic economy and are an important reason for the country's high standard of living.

Turkey (top)

It is a member is NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them.

Beginning in 2007, this country has seen strong economic growth, an increase in its retail market, along with a young population, therefore making it an attractive foreign investment opportunity. Additionally, the privatization of state-owned companies ranging from sugar factories and highways to the remainder of Turk Telecom, should attract a strong inflow of FDI. More than a dozen electrical distribution companies were privatized during 2009 .

Some tax reforms with new laws have been designed to extend the tax base to the unregistered economy. Personal income taxes have been simplified and extended. Social security has been reformed to better ensure fiscal performance.

Turkey is building a seabed tunnel which will eventually be a key part of a railway link from the Middle East to Europe. The tunnel, which will cost US$3.5 billion, is expected to open in 2013 .This will create of transportation and make the country more attractive to foreign market expansion.

Agriculture accounts for 9.5% of GDP and employs more than a quarter of the work force. Major crops include grapes, fruit, barley and cotton. New investments and more favorable weather conditions should result in a better performance in 2010 .

Textiles are the country's largest industry, accounting for one-third of manufacturing employment. Clothing and textiles make up nearly 40% of total exports that mostly go to the EU. Turkey has become a production hub for the automobile industry with investments by Renault, Fiat, Hyundai and Toyota .

United Kingdom (top)

The UK consists mainly of two distinct land masses. One part includes England, Scotland and the Principality of Wales, and the other consists of Northern Ireland.

The UK is a member of NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which provides a forum in which the USA, Canada, and European countries can consult together on securities issues of common concern and take joint action in addressing them .

The country is a member of the European (EU), which has developed a single market through a standardized system of laws which apply in all member states, guaranteeing the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital.

The UK is by far the largest petroleum producer and exporter in the EU. The UK is by far the largest petroleum producer and exporter in the EU. It also is the largest producer and an important exporter of natural gas in the EU. The government hopes to have 5% of all transport running on biofuels by 2010 .

The UK has ambitious plans to develop its nuclear industry. The government is committed to building several nuclear plants and has attracted interest from most of Europe's leading energy companies but continuously seeks more investment.

The UK's public capital is low compared with major economies , especially compared to Europe. Some parts of the country’s infrastructure could be rebuilt to improve productivity therefore seeking foreign investment.

The UK has some onshore oil production and is one of the world's largest oil consumers. The central North Sea contains nearly half of the UK's remaining oil reserves. There is still some unexplored territory west of the Shetlands and foreign investment could help develop this area .

Ukraine (top)

Ukraine is an important emerging retail market despite the slowdown. Ukraine is the world’s sixth largest grain exporter. Large foreign investors have spent nearly US$1 billion in Ukraine grain production however the continuously seeks more investment to expand the market .

In 2007, the country's parliament approved a series of measures to pave the way for membership in the WTO (World Trade Organization). They included new laws covering a range of issues from agricultural subsidies to strengthening intellectual property rights.

In 2009, the government signed an agreement with the EU to modernize the gas transport system. The EU will provide US$5.5 billion for this purpose. In return, the Ukraine must create an independent gas operator, which will improve its attraction as a place to invest .

Ukraine's geographic location provides a useful corridor for oil and natural gas to transit from Russia and the Caspian Sea to European markets. More than a fifth of Russia’s oil exports go through the Ukraine or are consumed there. Up to 1.6 million bbl/d could eventually be exported through the country after a 15-year intergovernmental oil transit improvement agreement comes to fruition . Minerals are as important to Ukraine as oil is to Russia. The country has the world's largest supply of titanium, the third largest deposit of iron ore and 30% of the world's manganese ore. The metals industry accounts for two-fifth of all exports and output had doubled prior to the global crisis .

Euromonitor International