Top 10 most business-friendly countries in 2026: The US leads; where does India rank?

Most Business-Friendly Countries in 2026: In a volatile and competitive global economy, countries are now working to attract foreign investment and encourage entrepreneurship by building business-friendly environments.

The United States (US) ranks first as the most business-friendly country in 2026, backed by its large market size, innovation ecosystem, and favourable business climate, according to StartupBlink Innovators Business Environment Index (IBEI).

Singapore ranks second on the index, recording the highest scores across eight parameters – more than any other country on the list.

The United Kingdom, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Estonia are among the highest-ranked European economies in the top 10.

Additionally, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia feature on the list, standing out for their taxation policies, along with Japan, which is known for its favourable credit conditions.

The StartupBlink IBEI 2026, published in January, evaluates the ease of establishing and operating a business across 125 countries using more than 30 indicators.

Innovators Business Environment Index 2026: Top 10 most business-friendly countries globally 

World's Top 10 Most Business-Friendly Countries

Innovators Business Environment Index 2026

#1

United States

100.000

/100

#2

Singapore

99.145

/100

#3

United Kingdom

93.900

/100

#4

Switzerland

86.901

/100

#5

United Arab Emirates

86.222

/100

#6

Canada

86.144

/100

#7

The Netherlands

85.715

/100

#8

Japan

83.644

/100

#9

Saudi Arabia

82.880

/100

#10

Estonia

78.997

/100

Source: StartupBlink Innovators Business Environment Index 2026

Indian Express InfoGenIE

India beats China: Where does it rank?

India’s standing on StartupBlink IBEI 2026

India ranks 54th with a score of 55.035, ahead of China, which stands at 85th globally. Regionally, it is placed 10th in the Asia-Pacific and first in South Asia, according to the report.

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India’s business environment is marked by robust regional strengths, reliable access to capital within the Asia-Pacific region, a large market size, and a competitive cost structure.

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