Frequent changes in tax legislation were among the main criteria cited by business people in the three countries. Some 70 percent of respondents indicated that the unattractive tax regimen was a disadvantage in their competition with foreign companies. The study did highlight the fact that lower taxes and simplified tax regulations are not sufficient for competitive business practices. The 400 business people interviewed indicated that high qualification of the work force, access to raw materials, and a sales market are equally important.

The Guardian-quoted study by KPMG lists top countries as Cyprus, Ireland and Switzerland, due to easy-to-understand laws and regulations, low taxes and fees, and a stable fiscal environment.

According to a study by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Romania is classified 50th, up two positions, in a classification of business attractiveness forecast for 82 countries in the 2008-2012 period. Romanian authorities are expected to increase the country’s attractiveness by offering incentives for investments, including lower interest on loans, and up to €2,000 for each new job created, provided that investments are maintained for a period of 10 years, according to a draft law on investments.