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 2008", Singapore was top in ease of doing business in Asia. Singapore ranked 2nd in the world and first in Asia for having the best protection of intellectual property. Singapore is the least bureaucratic place for doing business in Asia and the first choice for Asian expatriates. 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 9 January 2009)