- Encourage trade. The government encouraged trade by passing laws that made it easier for merchants to trade with other countries. For example, the Navigation Acts of 1651 and 1660 required that all goods imported into England be carried on English ships. This protected English merchants from competition from foreign merchants.
- Invest in infrastructure. The government also invested in infrastructure that made trade easier. For example, it built roads and bridges to improve transportation, and it established ports and warehouses to facilitate shipping.
- Establish colonies. The government established colonies in North America, the West Indies, and other parts of the world to provide new markets for English goods. The government encouraged colonies to specialize in producing certain commodities in order to prevent competition between colonies.
- Regulate trade. The government regulated trade by setting prices, tariffs, and other restrictions on trade. The government also established a system of tariffs that favored English goods over foreign goods.
- Tax trade. The government also taxed trade to raise revenue. The government imposed taxes on imported goods and exported goods. The government also imposed a tax on the profits of merchants.