Asia Briefing’s ASEAN Focused Regulatory and Operational Business Updates

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August 27, 2026

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Weekly business and foreign investment news roundup in Asia

by Asia Briefing and Dezan Shira & Associates (An Ascentium Company).

ASEAN EDITION

TOP STORIES THIS WEEK:

Should Foreign Investors Use Labuan for Holding Structures in Malaysia?

Foreign investors can use either Labuan or an ordinary Malaysian company for holding investments, but the tax, regulatory, operational, and economic substance requirements differ. This guide compares both options and helps businesses assess which structure better supports regional investment and expansion.

Philippines Shareholding: Nominee Structures or Direct Ownership?

Foreign investors should approach nominee arrangements carefully. We compare nominee structures with direct shareholding and explain how foreign ownership restrictions, Anti-Dummy Law exposure, and beneficial ownership rules affect structuring decisions.

Intercompany Loans in Vietnam: Transfer Pricing and Interest Deduction Risks

Intercompany financing in Vietnam is subject to transfer pricing requirements and a 30 percent EBITDA cap on deductible interest. We explain how these rules can affect funding structures, corporate income tax exposure, and documentation obligations.

When Can a Company Lose Its Tax Incentives in Vietnam?

Corporate income tax incentives can be affected by project changes, restructuring, expansion, or failures to maintain eligibility. This guide explains the circumstances that may put incentives at risk and what investors should review before changing an approved investment structure.

What Does a Virtual CFO Do for a Singapore Company?

A Virtual CFO can support growing companies with financial reporting, cash-flow management, forecasting, internal controls, and investment planning. This guide explains when outsourced CFO support may be more practical than building a full in-house finance function.

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COMPLIMENTARY BUSINESS RESOURCES:

Vietnam's New Personal Data Protection Rules: Compliance, Governance, and Risk Management Guide

Vietnam’s New Personal Data Protection Rules: Compliance, Governance, and Risk Management Guide explores the regulatory requirements, implementation challenges, and risk management considerations companies should address to ensure compliance and support sustainable digital operations.

An Introduction to Doing Business in Singapore 2026

This publication, designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in Singapore, was compiled by Dezan Shira & Associates, a specialist foreign direct investment practice providing corporate establishment, audit, business advisory, tax advisory and compliance, accounting, payroll, due diligence, and financial review services to multinationals and small- and medium-sized enterprises investing in emerging Asia.