Common Hurdles in Indian Subsidiary Incorporation and How to Overcome Them.
India has become a global hotspot for businesses seeking to expand their operations. Its burgeoning market, diverse consumer base, and favorable policies make it an ideal destination for international companies. Setting up an Indian subsidiary is a strategic move for foreign businesses, offering legal and operational advantages. Here’s a detailed guide to understanding Indian subsidiary incorporation and why it’s a prudent choice.
What is an Indian Subsidiary?
An Indian subsidiary is a company established under Indian laws by a foreign
parent company. The parent company owns a significant portion of the
subsidiary’s shares, typically at least 50%, enabling it to retain control. The
Indian subsidiary
incorporation operates as an independent legal entity, ensuring limited
liability for the parent company and compliance with Indian regulations.
Why Incorporate an Indian Subsidiary?
1. Market
Access: India’s growing economy and consumer demand provide a vast
market for goods and services.
2. Legal
Entity: A subsidiary enjoys the status of a separate legal entity,
protecting the parent company from liabilities.
3. Tax
Benefits: India offers various tax incentives for specific industries
and regions.
4. Operational
Autonomy: The subsidiary can operate independently while aligning with
the parent company’s strategic goals.
5. Ease
of Doing Business: The government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative
simplifies the process of business establishment.
Key Features of an Indian Subsidiary
·
Ownership Structure: The subsidiary
can be wholly owned or jointly owned.
·
Limited Liability:
Shareholders’ liabilities are restricted to their shareholding.
·
Local Compliance: The
subsidiary must adhere to Indian laws, including the Companies Act, 2013.
·
Flexible Operations: It can
engage in activities approved under its Memorandum of Association (MoA).
Steps to Incorporate an Indian Subsidiary
1. Digital
Signature Certificate (DSC): Obtain DSCs for the proposed directors to
file electronic forms.
2. Director
Identification Number (DIN): Secure DINs for the foreign and Indian
directors.
3. Name
Approval: Choose a unique name and get it approved by the Ministry of
Corporate Affairs (MCA).
4. Drafting
of Documents: Prepare key documents such as the MoA and Articles of
Association (AoA).
5. Filing
with the Registrar of Companies (RoC): Submit incorporation forms and
documents to the RoC.
6. Certificate
of Incorporation: Receive the incorporation certificate, which serves
as legal proof of the company’s existence.
7. PAN
and TAN Application: Obtain Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Tax
Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) for tax compliance.
8. Bank
Account Opening: Open a corporate bank account to manage financial
transactions.
Compliance Requirements for an Indian Subsidiary
1. Annual
Filings: File annual returns and financial statements with the RoC.
2. Tax
Compliance: Submit income tax returns and comply with GST regulations
if applicable.
3. Board
Meetings: Conduct regular board meetings and maintain minutes.
4. Foreign
Exchange Management Act (FEMA): Adhere to FEMA guidelines for foreign
investments.
5. Statutory
Audits: Ensure that the accounts are audited by a certified chartered
accountant.
Benefits of Partnering with Legal Experts
Navigating the intricacies of Indian subsidiary
incorporation can be daunting for foreign companies. Partnering with
experienced legal consultants simplifies the process by ensuring compliance and
addressing potential challenges. Here’s how experts can assist:
·
Documentation: Preparing and
verifying necessary documents.
·
Regulatory Approvals: Liaising
with authorities for swift approvals.
·
Compliance Management: Ensuring
adherence to corporate, tax, and labor laws.
·
Advisory Services: Offering
strategic advice on operational and legal matters.
Challenges in Setting Up an Indian Subsidiary
1. Regulatory
Hurdles: Navigating India’s complex regulatory landscape can be
time-consuming.
2. Cultural
Differences: Understanding and adapting to Indian business culture is
crucial.
3. Taxation
Policies: Complying with India’s tax laws requires expert guidance.
4. Logistical
Issues: Managing supply chains and operational logistics can be
challenging.
Conclusion
Establishing an Indian subsidiary is a rewarding venture for foreign
businesses aiming to tap into the Indian market. With its legal advantages, operational
autonomy, and growth potential, an Indian subsidiary
incorporation serves as a strategic foothold in one of the world’s
fastest-growing economies. By partnering with reliable legal experts like Legal Man,
businesses can ensure a seamless incorporation process and focus on achieving
their strategic goals.
Whether you’re exploring market opportunities or looking to expand your
global footprint, setting up an Indian subsidiary is a step in the right direction.
Begin your journey with confidence and let the experts guide you through the
process.
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