An Introduction to Doing Business in Indonesia 2025
Indonesia stands at the forefront of economic opportunity in Southeast Asia. With a population nearing 300 million, a growing middle class, and ongoing industrial transformation, the country offers an expansive market and a strategic gateway into the wider ASEAN region.
An Introduction to Doing Business in Indonesia 2025 covers the following:
- Indonesia’s New Positive Investment List
- Human resources and payroll
- Corporate establishment
- Taxation
Saudi Arabia Revises Labor Law Penalties to Strengthen Workplace Compliance
Saudi Arabia proposed updated labor law amendments, including penalties to address workplace violations and enhance occupational safety standards.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in Saudi Arabia has issued a proposal to revise penalties for a range of violations under the Labor Law. The new structure reflects amendments to 38 articles, removal of seven provisions, and addition of two new regulations, all designed to clarify employer obligations and streamline enforcement.
How Expats in Shenzhen Can Apply for the GBA IIT Subsidy in 2025?
The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) individual income tax (IIT) subsidy for foreign talents working in the region kicked off in Shenzhen on June 1, 2025. Covering the tax paid above the standard 15 percent rate, the program aims to attract top global talent. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help expats understand eligibility requirements, prepare application documents, and submit their claims for the 2024 tax year before the July 31 deadline.
Avoid Excess Tax Deductions in India: NRI Guide to Lower TDS Certificates
NRIs earning income from India can avoid high default TDS rates by applying for a lower or nil deduction certificate under Section 197 of the Income Tax Act.
Non-resident Indians (NRIs) earning income in India, from rent and interest to capital gains and professional fees, often face disproportionately high Tax Deducted at Source (TDS). This occurs because TDS is usually applied at the maximum marginal rate (20–30 percent plus surcharge and cess), regardless of deductions, exemptions, or Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) benefits.
However, eligible NRIs can apply for a lower or nil TDS certificate under Section 197 of the Income Tax Act, 1961, ensuring that tax is deducted only at the applicable rate.
Saudi Arabia Raises Wage Subsidies to 50 Percent for 63 Tourism-Related Jobs
Saudi Arabia has expanded its wage subsidy program to cover 50 percent of salaries for 63 tourism-related occupations. This move aims to boost Saudization and empower the national workforce for Vision 2030 reforms.
On May 25, 2025, Saudi Arabia’s Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF) and the Ministry of Tourism announced an expansion in the wage subsidy initiative aimed at nationalizing jobs in the tourism sector.
The wage subsidy initiative falls under the National Transformation Program and Tourism Human Capital Development Strategy, designed to increase the attractiveness of tourism jobs for Saudi nationals.
Beyond Salary: Holistic Approaches to Talent Retention in China
Retaining top talent in China goes beyond offering competitive pay. For foreign investors, long-term success requires holistic workforce strategies addressing evolving employee needs. This article explores creative non-monetary solutions—from career development and flexible work policies to wellness initiatives—fueling sustainable growth and reducing turnover.
The Role of a Managing Director in Lithuania: BETWEEN EMPLOYMENT AND CORPORATE LAW
Hans Lauschke, Associate, bnt attorneys in CEE, Vilnius office
The legal status of a managing director in Lithuania is characterized by a dual re lationship. On the one hand, the managing director acts as a representative of the company on a corporate law basis. On the other hand, Lithuanian law requires that an employment contract must be concluded with the managing director. This creates an additional employment relationship—even if the managing director is also the sole shareholder.
LITHUANIA IS INCREASINGLY SEEN AS A STRATEGIC PARTNER
Dominic Otto, Deputy Managing Director of the German-Baltic Chamber of Commerce, Lithuania Office
Could you comment on the German business community's presence in Lithuania, as well as the key sectors driving economic cooperation between Germany and Lithuania?
German business is especially well represented in Lithuania in the fields of metal processing and the automotive industry. Companies such as Hella and Continental operate production facilities in Lithuania and are among the most important German investors in the country.
BALTIC COMPANIES PREFER TO HIRE EXECUTIVES FROM THEIR OWN COUNTRY
Kateryna Aleksiuk, Director Ukraine & Baltics, CT Executive Search
Kateryna, how would you describe the current economic situation in Lithuania, particularly in terms of the demand for executives?
Lithuania is showing positive economic indicators, which are driving an increase in demand for qualified executives. According to the Ministry of Finance of Lithuania, GDP growth in 2025 is projected to be 2.8%. This growth is stimulating business expansion, which, in turn, raises the need for experienced leaders who can effectively manage the development of companies.
From Traditional Manufacturing to Intelligent Systems: Talent Strategy and Operational Restructuring
As China accelerates its transition to smart and green manufacturing, the sector’s greatest challenge is no longer just technological adoption—but talent. This article explores how businesses must adapt their China manufacturing talent strategy, from skill diversification and education-industry alignment to employer branding and AI-driven talent analytics, to stay competitive in a digitally and environmentally driven era.
Slide of the month (SOTM). Which country in Africa has the highest number of large gas projects?
Africa’s oil and gas sector remains a key focus of global interest, with natural gas emerging as a primary target for investment. Many countries hold substantial reserves, and governments are actively driving large-scale gas projects across the continent.
Building Localized Recruiting Strategies to Succeed in China’s Evolving Labor Market
Businesses operating in China face unique challenges that necessitate localized recruiting strategies. By adapting to local cultural nuances, regulatory environments, and digital trends, foreign invested enterprises can better navigate the complexities of the Chinese market, attract top talent, and build a more resilient workforce.
Understanding Malaysia’s Foreign Worker Policies: A Guide for Foreign Investors
Malaysia’s economy is heavily reliant on foreign labor, particularly in key sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and services. As of 2024, there are approximately 2.3 million foreign workers in the country, making up 14.6 percent of the total workforce.
From Recruitment to Retention: Talent Trends and Strategies in China
China’s labor market is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by demographic shifts, evolving workforce expectations, and technological advancements. In recent years, businesses have been facing growing challenges in attracting, engaging, and retaining top talent as competition for skilled professionals intensifies.
In this China Briefing issue sheds light on:
- Navigating China’s Evolving Labor Market
- Building Localized Recruiting Strategies for Your China Business
- Beyond Salary: Holistic Approaches to Talent Retention in China
ALMOST EVERY GERMAN COMPANY IS SATISFIED WITH ROMANIA AS A BUSINESS LOCATION
Sebastian Metz, Executive board member of the German-Romanian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK Romania), Bucharest
What are the anticipated economic implications of Romania's recent political devel opments?
Political unrest always affects the economy, usually by reducing investor confidence and causing businesses to adopt a wait-and-see approach. We are currently experiencing these effects as well - companies are postponing decisions on expansions or investments, or in extreme cases, abandoning investment plans altogether.
Romania: MORE MANAGERS ARE CONSIDERING RELOCATION
Christian Tegethoff, Managing Director, CT Executive Search
What kind of positions are you currently recruiting to in Romania?
At CT Executive Search, we primarily recruit senior executives in Romania for inter national companies, mostly with Western European or U.S. roots. Our clients are predominantly from the upper mid-market segment, alongside major corporations.
The Business Magazine of the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce
Romania: Adapting to new legislation on foreign investment approval
Gabriel Popa, Partner, STALFORT Legal. Tax. Audit.
Foreign investments are a key component of Romania’s national economic devel opment, significantly impacting job creation, innovation, international trade, and f inancial flows. In this context, Romania regulates the approval process for such investments through Emergency Ordinance No. 46/2022 (with subsequent amend ments, hereinafter "EO 46"), which sets the conditions under which foreign direct investments require prior approval.
Navigating Hong Kong’s Annual Employer’s Return: Compliance and Best Practices
The Annual Employer’s Return filing in Hong Kong begins on the first working day of April and should be completed within one month. Hong Kong employers are advised to start preparations early and allocate sufficient resources to meet this tight deadline. Non-compliance with the Annual Employer’s Return filing requirements may result in avoidable penalties.
This article answers the following questions:
- What kind of employees are subjected to the Annual Employer’s Return?
- What to file in the Annual Employer’s Return?
- How to file the Annual Employer’s Return?
Breaking Down Singapore’s Work Permit Changes: What’s New for 2025?
Singapore is set to implement significant changes to its Work Permit and S Pass frameworks, aiming to enhance workforce stability and address labor shortages. These reforms, announced by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), will take effect between July 1 and September 1, 2025, and focus on extending employment opportunities for foreign workers, refining S Pass eligibility, and broadening the talent pool across various sectors.
India’s Tech Workforce Shifts as GCCs Outpace Traditional IT Firms
While the IT industry is poised to reach US$300 billion in revenue by financial year 2026-27, employment trends indicate a significant shift in workforce distribution and employer preferences.
India’s tech hiring trends in 2025 reflect a broader movement toward efficiency, innovation, and strategic workforce planning. With AI-driven automation reshaping business models, companies must prioritize digital transformation, employee upskilling, and advanced hiring strategies.
China’s Labor Law: Key Developments in 2024 and Trends to Watch in 2025
China’s labor law landscape underwent significant reforms in 2024. These changes have had a direct impact on workforce management, social security policies, and compliance requirements for both domestic and foreign-invested enterprises.
As China moves into 2025, further reforms are expected. Employers will need to adapt their HR strategies to stay compliant.
The Indo-German Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
Personal Income Tax Changes in India Under the New Regime for FY 2025-26
India Briefing by Dezan Shira & Associates
India’s personal income tax system has undergone substantial revisions with the Union Budget announced on February 1, 2025. These changes only impact taxpayers opting for the new tax regime. We provide a comprehensive breakdown of the updates, tax slab comparisons, and their implications.
The Business Magazine of the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce
Want to stay updated with all the Indo-German news? The Indo-German Economy contains all the information about the latest trends and developments in Indo-German cooperation as well as the various activities and initiatives of the Chamber.
Highlights:
- APK 2024
- Indian Delegation Visits AMB 2024
- Harnessing the Wind: Hamburg 2024
- HR Forum 2024
