It is very essential to plan for operations in India after considering the activities proposed to be carried on by the foreign company in India. One has to consider tax, exchange control and other legal implications before deciding on the form of business to be set up in India since any wrong move could prove costly in the long run.

Foreign Companies can set up their operations in India as a foreign company through a Liaison Office/Representative Office or through a Project or Branch Office. Each of these options is subject to certain restrictions regarding the scope of operations in India.

A foreign company can also commence operations in India by incorporating a company under the Companies Act, 1956 either as a Joint Venture or as a Wholly Owned Subsidiary. Foreign equity in such Indian companies can be up to 100% subject to equity caps in respect of the area of activities under the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy.

Our India Operations Team comprises of professionals who have wide and extensive experience in structuring India entry strategy for many corporate and in advising and assisting on various matters in connection therewith. We also have with us specialized marketing and technical professionals who can devote their full time and energy to act as your representative in India to promote your business interests in India. Our range of services includes:

• Advising on/formulating the entry strategy for India
  
• Structuring the investment in India in the most tax efficient manner after considering benefits available under domestic tax laws and also the benefits under various Tax treaties in order to ensure tax minimization on a global basis
  
• Advising on the possible locations for setting up manufacturing operations to obtain maximum tax benefits after taking into account infrastructural and other specific special requirements
  
• Negotiate with various State Governments for obtainment of maximum benefit when large foreign investment is envisaged
  
• Guidance in respect of various laws, rules and regulations that will have a bearing on setting up of operations in India
  
• Obtainment of clearance from the Foreign Investment Promotion Board and Reserve Bank of India, where necessary
  
• Obtainment of Registrations for obtainment of certain tax benefits
  
• Total guidance & assistance in the incorporation of the company including approval for name of the company, drafting of Charter Documents, filing of documents required for incorporation and obtainment of Registration from the Registrar of Companies
  
• Advising on the various compliance procedures under relevant laws, rules and regulations
  including industry specific legal issues
  
• Acting as representative office of a foreign entity in India to promote its business development and interests in India