Singapore is the most developed country in South East Asia, with an excellent infrastructure and a GNP per capita that is higher than in most Western countries. The strategic location in Asia, the hardworking and educated workforce, and the stable political situation, have helped to establish Singapore as a financial and commercial centre. Singapore consistently scores well in global and regional rankings for factors that matter to businesses. In a World Bank report, "Doing Business in 2007:How to reform", Singapore was top in ease of doing business in Asia. For the last three years, Singapore is also voted the most Intellectual Property-protective country in Asia by the Political and Economic Research Consultancy.It is relatively easy to start up a business in Singapore, due to clear-cut and transparent regulations for new companies. There are many useful guides on how to penetrate the Singaporean market and the links to the right on this page could be used as an introduction.(Last updated 21 August 2008)