Cross Border Business Insights Between the UK, Estonia and Finland

Our recent roundtable brought together business and legal experts from the UK, Estonia and Finland to discuss how cultural and regulatory differences shape cross‑border cooperation. Despite distinct ways of working, all three markets offer complementary strengths that create real opportunities for collaboration.

Cultural & Business Practices

  • The UK operates with relationship‑driven communication and detailed common‑law contracting.

  • Estonia stands out for its digital efficiency, direct communication and fast decision‑making.

  • Finland offers stability, transparency and a highly predictable administrative and legal environment.

Legal & Compliance Considerations
Contracting approaches differ: UK contracts tend to be comprehensive, while Estonia and Finland rely on concise civil‑law structures supported by statutory protections. Compliance expectations remain high across all three markets, with Finland often taking the most conservative interpretation in regulated sectors.

Talent, Immigration & Workforce Dynamics
Finland continues to balance labour shortages with ongoing immigration debates, while Estonia attracts international founders through its digital‑nomad visa and e‑Residency programs. The UK’s post‑Brexit talent environment requires targeted visa pathways, but retains strong international competitiveness in key sectors.

Startup Funding & Innovation
Finland benefits from strong public support instruments and established investor networks. Estonia’s startup ecosystem is internationally known for its agility and founder‑friendly regulation. The UK offers deep venture markets and global scaling capabilities.

Shared Conclusion
Despite differences in culture, law and administrative practices, the three markets complement each other exceptionally well. Combining UK commercial depth, Estonian digital agility and Finnish predictability creates a strong platform for future cooperation.

Participants:
Alan Page‑Duffy • John Workman• Nora Haapala • Jukka Hahlanterä  • Anne Hatanpää • Jenni Tiainen

Text: Nora Haapala, Attorney-at-law, Associate Partner at Rödl Attorneys Ltd.

 

Anne HATANPÄÄ