Under the Han the salt and iron industries were
under strict state control. The Han Dynasty, which lasted from 206 BCE to 220 CE, implemented a policy known as the "Salt and Iron Monopoly" in order to centralize power and generate revenue for the government.
Under this policy, the state had a monopoly on the production and distribution of salt and iron. Private individuals and businesses were prohibited from producing or selling these commodities on their own. The government established official salt and iron workshops where production was conducted. These workshops were overseen by appointed officials and workers were typically forced laborers or prisoners.
By controlling the salt and iron industries, the Han Dynasty could regulate prices and quality, ensuring that the government would receive consistent income from these commodities. It also allowed the government to have a greater influence over the economy and maintain a strong central authority.
The salt and iron monopoly was highly profitable for the government, but it also resulted in economic disparities and discontent among the population. Taxes and prices for salt and iron goods were frequently increased, which burdened ordinary people and led to smuggling and black market activities.
The policy was eventually abolished during the later years of the Han Dynasty, as it became increasingly difficult for the government to maintain control over the salt and iron industries. Nonetheless, the salt and iron monopoly under the Han Dynasty had a significant impact on the economy and society during that period.