Starting a business in Brunei can be rewarding, especially if you identify a niche that meets local needs or leverages your skills. From online-based services to traditional enterprises, here are 100 business ideas in Brunei that you can start with relatively low capital.
About Brunei
Brunei is a sovereign state located on the northern coast of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It boasts a high standard of living, a well-educated population, and a strong commitment to Islamic values. The nation’s wealth primarily stems from its extensive petroleum and natural gas fields.
However, recognizing the need for economic diversification, Brunei is investing in various sectors to ensure sustainable growth. The country’s strategic location within the ASEAN region also provides access to a broader market, making it an attractive destination for business ventures.
The government’s Vision 2035 initiative aims to diversify the economy beyond oil and gas, focusing on sectors like tourism, halal industries, technology, and sustainable development.
100 Business Ideas in Brunei
1. Halal Food Processing
Establish a facility that processes halal-certified food products, catering to both local and international markets. With Brunei’s strict halal standards, there’s a significant opportunity to become a trusted supplier in the global halal food industry.
2. Islamic Finance Consultancy
Offer consultancy services to businesses and individuals seeking Shariah-compliant financial solutions. As Brunei strengthens its position in Islamic finance, there’s a growing demand for expert guidance in this sector.
3. Eco-Tourism Ventures
Develop eco-friendly tourism packages that showcase Brunei’s pristine rainforests and biodiversity. This aligns with the government’s push to promote sustainable tourism.
4. Renewable Energy Solutions
Provide solar panel installation and maintenance services to support Brunei’s goal of increasing renewable energy usage. The government aims to deploy up to 10% more renewable energy by 2035.
5. Digital Marketing Agency
Start an agency that helps local businesses enhance their online presence through SEO, social media, and content marketing strategies.
6. E-commerce Platform for Local Products
Create an online marketplace that showcases and sells Bruneian-made products, promoting local artisans and producers.
7. Specialty Coffee Shop
Open a café that offers specialty coffee blends, creating a unique experience for coffee enthusiasts and tapping into the growing café culture.
8. Health and Wellness Center
Establish a center that offers services like yoga, meditation, and holistic therapies, catering to the increasing focus on health and wellness.
9. Mobile App Development
Develop mobile applications tailored to the needs of Brunei’s population, such as local service directories or delivery apps.
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10. Online Education Platforms
Launch platforms that offer online courses in various subjects, addressing the demand for flexible learning options.
11. Agritech Solutions
Introduce technology-driven solutions to enhance agricultural productivity, such as smart irrigation systems or crop monitoring tools.
12. Fish Farming (Aquaculture)
Invest in sustainable fish farming practices to meet the local demand for seafood and reduce reliance on imports.
13. Organic Farming
Start an organic farm that supplies chemical-free produce to health-conscious consumers and restaurants.
14. Waste Management Services
Provide waste collection and recycling services, contributing to environmental sustainability efforts.
15. Language Translation Services
Offer translation and interpretation services for businesses and tourists, facilitating better communication in a multilingual society.
16. IT Support Services
Establish a company that provides IT support and solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
17. Cybersecurity Consultancy
Provide cybersecurity services to protect businesses from digital threats, a growing concern in the digital age.
18. Mobile Car Wash Services
Offer convenient, eco-friendly car cleaning services at customers’ locations, saving them time and effort.
19. Home Cleaning Services
Start a professional home cleaning service catering to busy households and expatriates.
20. Event Planning and Management
Organize events such as weddings, corporate functions, and festivals, providing end-to-end planning services.
21. Graphic Design Studio
Set up a studio that offers graphic design services for branding, marketing materials, and digital content.
22. Photography and Videography Services
Provide professional photography and videography services for events, businesses, and personal projects.
23. Fitness Training Services
Offer personal training sessions, fitness classes, or open a gym to promote healthy lifestyles.
24. Childcare Services
Establish a daycare center or offer babysitting services to support working parents.
25. Elderly Care Services
Provide in-home care or assisted living services for the elderly, addressing the needs of an aging population.
26. Pet Grooming and Boarding
Start a pet care business offering grooming, boarding, and pet-sitting services.
27. Online Retail Store
Launch an e-commerce store selling niche products, leveraging the growing trend of online shopping.
28. Food Delivery Services
Develop a food delivery platform that connects local restaurants with customers, enhancing convenience.
29. Mobile Repair Services
Offer repair services for smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices, providing quick and reliable solutions.
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30. Custom Tailoring Services
Provide bespoke tailoring services for traditional and modern clothing, catering to diverse fashion preferences.
31. Interior Design Consultancy
Offer interior design services for homes and offices, creating aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces.
32. Landscaping Services
Start a landscaping business that designs and maintains gardens and outdoor spaces.
33. Car Rental Services
Establish a car rental company catering to tourists and locals needing temporary transportation.
34. Travel Agency
Open a travel agency that offers customized travel packages and visa assistance services.
35. Language Learning Center
Set up a center offering language courses, such as English, Mandarin, or Arabic, to meet educational needs.
36. Cooking Classes
Offer cooking classes that teach local and international cuisines, appealing to food enthusiasts.
37. Art and Craft Workshops
Conduct workshops teaching various art forms, such as painting, pottery, or traditional crafts.
38. Bookstore and Café
Combine a bookstore with a café, creating a cozy space for reading and socializing.
39. Music School
Establish a music school offering lessons in instruments, vocals, and music theory.
40. Dance Studio
Open a dance studio teaching various dance styles, promoting physical fitness and cultural expression.
41. Martial Arts Academy
Start an academy offering martial arts training, fostering discipline and self-defense skills.
42. Driving School
Provide driving lessons and licensing assistance, catering to new drivers.
43. Career Counseling Services
Offer career guidance and counseling services to students and job seekers.
44. Resume Writing Services
Assist individuals in crafting professional resumes and cover letters to enhance job prospects.
45. Recruitment Agency
Establish an agency that connects employers with suitable candidates, streamlining the hiring process.
46. Business Consultancy
Provide consultancy services to startups and SMEs, offering strategic advice and support.
47. Accounting and Bookkeeping Services
Offer financial management services to businesses, ensuring compliance and financial health.
48. Legal Advisory Services
Provide legal advice and services to individuals and businesses, covering various legal matters.
49. Real Estate Agency
Start a real estate agency that assists clients in buying, selling, or renting properties.
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50. Property Management Services
Offer property management services to landlords, handling tenant relations and maintenance.
51. Construction Company
Establish a construction firm that undertakes residential and commercial building projects.
52. Renovation Services
Provide renovation and remodeling services for homes and offices.
53. Furniture Manufacturing
Start a business that designs and manufactures custom furniture pieces.
54. Handicraft Production
Produce traditional handicrafts for sale to tourists and locals, preserving cultural heritage.
55. Souvenir Shop
Open a shop selling souvenirs and local products, targeting tourists.
56. Florist Shop
Start a florist shop offering fresh flowers, floral arrangements, and delivery services for weddings, funerals, and special occasions. With the right marketing, it can cater to both individuals and corporate clients.
57. Beauty Salon
Open a beauty salon that offers hair styling, facials, manicures, and skincare treatments. The growing interest in personal grooming presents strong potential for profit.
58. Barber Shop
Set up a modern barber shop providing haircuts, grooming, and beard care services for men. Add-ons like loyalty programs and grooming products can boost revenue.
59. Cosmetics Retail
Start a store or kiosk selling popular local and international cosmetic products. Focus on organic and halal-certified beauty items to align with consumer preferences in Brunei.
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60. Online Grocery Delivery
Launch an app or website that delivers groceries to customers’ homes. Include options for fresh produce, household goods, and local specialties.
61. Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services
Offer efficient laundry services, including washing, ironing, and dry cleaning. Busy professionals and families will appreciate door-to-door service.
62. Vending Machine Business
Install vending machines in schools, offices, and public areas, stocked with snacks, drinks, or hygiene products. Choose high-traffic locations for better returns.
63. Ice Cream and Dessert Café
Open a dessert café serving ice cream, frozen yogurt, waffles, and other sweet treats. Offer unique local flavors to attract a wider audience.
64. Bubble Tea Franchise
Tap into the popular bubble tea trend by starting your own outlet or buying into a franchise. Choose strategic locations like malls or campuses.
65. Mobile Food Truck
Launch a food truck serving local and international street food. It provides flexibility in location and lower startup costs than a traditional restaurant.
66. Cooking Gas Delivery Service
Start a business that delivers LPG cylinders to homes and businesses. Include easy online or phone ordering for convenience.
67. Printing and Photocopying Services
Set up a shop that offers printing, photocopying, binding, and scanning services near schools, universities, and offices.
68. Stationery and Office Supplies Store
Open a store that sells office supplies, school materials, and art products. Offer delivery services to attract corporate clients.
69. Educational Toy Store
Sell educational toys and learning materials for children. Focus on STEM toys, puzzles, and Montessori-inspired items.
70. Baby and Maternity Products
Open a store that offers baby clothes, accessories, maternity wear, and nursing essentials. Include both physical and online sales channels.
71. Subscription Box Service
Launch a subscription box business that delivers curated products such as snacks, books, or self-care items on a monthly basis.
72. Specialty Bakery
Start a bakery specializing in gluten-free, vegan, or halal-certified baked goods. Cater to niche dietary needs and celebrations.
73. Healthy Meal Prep Business
Provide healthy, pre-packaged meals for busy individuals and fitness enthusiasts. Offer subscription plans and delivery options.
74. Juice and Smoothie Bar
Open a juice bar offering fresh fruit juices, smoothies, and detox drinks. Add-on options like protein boosts can attract health-conscious customers.
75. Seafood Restaurant
Establish a seafood restaurant featuring locally sourced fish and shellfish. Emphasize freshness and sustainable sourcing.
76. Ethnic Cuisine Restaurant
Open a restaurant specializing in a specific cuisine such as Indian, Japanese, Korean, or Mediterranean. Brunei’s diverse population presents many options.
77. Franchise Business
Invest in a successful local or international franchise in sectors like fast food, education, or retail. It reduces the risk of starting from scratch.
78. Second-Hand Goods Store
Sell used books, clothes, electronics, and furniture. Promote sustainability and affordability for students and families.
79. Thrift Fashion Boutique
Curate a boutique offering pre-loved fashion items. Combine physical and online sales through social media marketing.
80. Influencer Marketing Agency
Build an agency that connects brands with social media influencers. Manage campaigns and provide metrics to track ROI.
81. Virtual Assistant Services
Offer remote administrative support to business owners, including email management, scheduling, and data entry.
82. Freelance Writing Services
Provide content writing, copywriting, or blogging services for websites, companies, and digital platforms.
83. Podcast Production Company
Start a company that helps others launch and manage podcasts, from recording and editing to distribution and marketing.
84. YouTube Channel or Studio
Create content around education, entertainment, or product reviews. Monetize through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise.
85. 3D Printing Services
Offer custom 3D printing for prototypes, educational models, or personalized gifts. Partner with schools and design firms.
86. Drone Photography Business
Provide aerial photography services for real estate, events, or tourism promotion. Ensure compliance with local drone laws.
87. Mobile Gaming App
Develop or localize a mobile game that appeals to regional interests or languages. Monetize through ads or in-app purchases.
88. Tech Repair and Refurbishment
Repair and refurbish phones, laptops, and other electronics. Offer trade-in programs and warranties to build trust.
89. Coworking Space
Set up a modern coworking hub for freelancers, startups, and digital nomads. Include fast internet, meeting rooms, and events.
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90. Blockchain Services
Provide blockchain development or consultancy services for businesses exploring secure, decentralized technology solutions.
91. Sustainable Packaging Business
Manufacture or sell biodegradable and reusable packaging materials to retailers and food businesses.
92. Local Clothing Brand
Start a fashion label that reflects Brunei’s culture with modern twists. Focus on modest fashion, streetwear, or eco-friendly materials.
93. Custom Merchandise Printing
Print custom T-shirts, mugs, notebooks, or promotional items for individuals and businesses.
94. Outdoor Adventure Services
Offer guided hikes, kayaking tours, or jungle treks to promote local adventure tourism.
95. Travel Blogging or Vlogging
Share travel content about Brunei and neighboring regions. Monetize through partnerships, ads, and travel packages.
96. Organic Skincare Products
Formulate and sell skincare products made from natural and halal-certified ingredients. Target wellness-focused consumers.
97. Personal Finance Coaching
Offer coaching and workshops to help individuals manage budgeting, savings, and investments.
98. Mental Health Counseling Services
Provide licensed counseling services or mental wellness programs for schools, companies, and communities.
99. Import and Export Trade
Start a business importing goods in demand locally or exporting Bruneian products such as halal foods and crafts.
100. Business Incubator or Accelerator
Launch an incubator that supports startups through mentorship, funding access, and business development programs.
Conclusion
Brunei’s evolving economy, political stability, and strong government support for entrepreneurship make it a fertile ground for launching profitable ventures.
Whether you’re looking to start small or an investor aiming for scalable impact, the 100 business ideas in Brunei provide a diverse range of options—from digital services and education to retail, food, and tech.
Before you begin, it’s crucial to research your target market, understand legal requirements, and build a solid business plan. Take advantage of government initiatives such as DARe (Darussalam Enterprise), which offers funding, mentorship, and training to budding entrepreneurs.
Also, pay attention to trends in consumer behavior—Bruneians are increasingly leaning toward convenience, sustainability, and tech-driven solutions.
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