Under the Han the Salt and Iron industries were privately owned, dominated by foreign merchants, run as state monopolies, allowed to fall into ruin

due to corrupt government officials and lack of investment. These industries were crucial for the economy and national defense of the Han dynasty, so their neglect and mismanagement had serious consequences for the empire. The decline of these industries also led to a decrease in tax revenue and a loss of strategic resources, weakening the Han's ability to effectively govern and defend its territory. Ultimately, the failure of the Han government to properly regulate and support these industries played a significant role in the eventual downfall of the dynasty.