Trade and Commerce Policy under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: Foundations of Indigenous Economic Governance

Abstract

                 Trade and commerce have always been essential for the economic strength and administrative stability of a state. In medieval India, however, commercial activities were frequently affected by political uncertainty, heavy taxation, and insecurity faced by traders. In this context, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj adopted a practical and people-oriented approach towards trade and commerce, which played a significant role in strengthening the economic foundation of his kingdom.This research paper focuses on the trade and commerce policy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and examines how his economic vision supported effective governance. The study discusses key features of his policy such as protection of traders, fair and regulated taxation, encouragement of indigenous markets, and development of maritime trade along the western coast. Shivaji Maharaj ensured that merchants were not subjected to unnecessary exploitation and that trade routes and ports remained secure. Such measures created confidence among trading communities and promoted economic activity.The paper also highlights how his trade policy reflected principles of ethical administration, fiscal discipline, and long-term economic planning. By linking historical practices with modern concepts like ease of doing business and sustainable economic development, the study shows that Shivaji Maharaj’s approach to trade was both progressive and governance-oriented. The paper concludes that his trade and commerce policy offers valuable insights for understanding early models of economic governance and remains relevant in contemporary leadership and policy discussions.