DOUGLAS, Isle of Man -- The Isle of Man, located in the British Isles and internationally recognized for its pro-business environment, has abolished its general corporate tax rate with an effective start in 2006. However, in 2005 many technology companies, including computer gaming and interactive entertainment firms, can already apply for tax-exemption if their customer base is off-Island.

Because of its pro-business and responsive government policies, the Isle of Man has become the home to a flourishing interactive entertainment and film industry. Many companies are establishing operations in the Isle of Man to access the UK and European Union markets. To support this process, the Isle of Man government provides financial and other support to help off-set the cost of moving, setting up operations, and acquiring new office equipment.

Scheduled to take effect in 2006, the zero corporate tax initiative is part of the government's strategy in expanding the Island's technology community and enhancing its reputation as an AAA rated jurisdiction. This combines world-class standards of regulation, transparency and infrastructure with extremely beneficial rates of direct taxation.

"The zero taxation initiative complements our overall economic plan to ensure that corporations and entrepreneurs experience financial success in the Isle of Man," said Tim Craine, the Isle of Man Government's E-business director. "Our pro-business environment helps companies lower their corporate growth costs and in turn enables organizations to be more profitable. We encourage high-tech businesses with plans to expand into Europe to look closely at the Isle of Man as their preferred location."

Dedicated to the development and maintenance of the Island's high-tech facilities, the Isle of Man contributes significant financial resources to offer the latest e-business solutions and technologies. With the Island's technology driven infrastructure and state-of-the art telecommunications and networking support, it is one of the most advanced and progressive European locations available to companies.

About the Isle of Man

Located just a few miles from the United Kingdom and situated in the center of the British Isles, the Isle of Man is an internally self-governing Crown Dependency, however, separate from the United Kingdom. The Island is recognized worldwide for its pro-business legislation and fully supports the growth of technology companies. The Isle of Man's colorful heritage, diverse scenic beauty, enhanced by many annual cultural events, hotel, conference and leisure facilities provides the basis for a long-established tourist and film industry. With excellent educational, health and social amenities, the Isle of Man provides a unique quality of life, which is appreciated and treasured by all its residents both old and new. For additional information on the Isle of Man visit http://www.isleofman.com and to learn more about its e-business division, visit http://www.ebusiness.gov.im.

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