Switzerland and Singapore have succeeded in becoming the world's most popular destinations for international commodity trading activity. Both countries have actively courted this activity by setting fiscal policies and incentives that complement their existing positive attributes. It is expected that the number of international trading companies setting up shop in these countries will continue to rise.
Other countries that are home to substantial numbers of these structures include the United Kingdom (London), the United States (Houston), Canada (Calgary), the Netherlands and Hong Kong. These locations are historical destinations of choice due to of their proximity to European, North American or Asian markets or production sources. The United Kingdom and Canada are also attractive due to their critical mass of local expertise in these sectors and opportunities to raise capital.
Another set of countries could emerge as international trading hubs in the future – but only if they can improve in key areas, such as political stability, physical and financial infrastructure, and business-friendly tax and commercial policies.