China Business Group
Your guide to doing business in the UK
The UK offers a robust, business-friendly environment to operate in. However, if you’re unfamiliar with our systems, investment landscape, and regulatory framework, strategy planning can be difficult.
You might also need some advice on choosing a location or understanding our business culture. That's why we've created this guide – to bring you our expertise and insight on key priorities for setting up in the UK – one of the strongest markets in the world.
“We’re leading experts in tax, audit, and advisory, with a dedicated international business centre who take the time to understand your business and give you the technical expertise and insight you need to achieve your goals in the UK. We specialise in connecting mid-market companies with the people and experiences they need to operate with confidence”
Melanie Frean
International Business Centre Director
Find the section you need
Accessing government support
The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) offers resources and tailored support to guide you through our investment landscape. Duncan Levesley, Director, Public Services Consulting, explains how you can access it.
Find out how you can access government funding →
Setting up in the UK
Initial planning will require important decisions about your legal entity, compliance regulations, and how to prepare for doing business in this country. Varun Dewan, Head of Business Process Outsourcing, outlines the steps you need to take.
Get the steps to successfully set up in the UK [ 5572 kb ] →
ESG and sustainability in business
Understanding ESG considerations is critical to managing your impact, reducing risks, and maximising opportunities. Paul Holland, Partner, Head of ESG Assurance Services, discusses why it should be central to your strategy.
Understand the UK’s ESG requirements →
Understanding UK business culture
Adapting to local cultural norms is critical to success in global business. Melanie Frean, International Business Centre Director, shares her guidance on building better relationships with colleagues and contacts in the country.
Choosing a location
Taking time to assess which region of the UK offers the best support for your business can ensure you set up in the right place. In this section you’ll find information about the key transport links, insight on what makes the region unique, and logistics in different parts of the country.
Find the right location for you →
Building your workforce
Whether you recruit locally or relocate existing talent, you need to understand the UK's requirements for hiring and supporting your workforce. Katie Nightingale, Director, Business Consulting, breaks down the key priorities and suggests how you can attract the right people to your business.
Find out how to build your workforce successfully in the UK →
Understanding the tax regime
You’ll need to familiarise yourself with our tax system and which taxes you’ll have to pay for your business and employees, as well as any personal obligations if you live in the country. David Willott, Partner, Tax, explains how it works – including the reliefs and investment incentives that can save you money.
Understand the UK tax requirements [ 5572 kb ] →
Acquiring a business and accessing finance
Buying another company can help you complete your next phase of growth. Peter Jennings, Head of Corporate Finance, and Philip Secrett, Head of Public Company Advisory, lay out the process, including funding opportunities, such as making an initial public offering.
Financial reporting and the UK regime
You need to follow our financial reporting regulations to ensure transparency and accountability. Varun Dewan, Head of Business Process Outsourcing, and Tom Townson, Head of Financial Crime, explain how you can meet these expectations.
Find out how to meet the UK’s regulations successfully →
