The Study Of Overseas Trade In Hainan In Ming And Qing Dynasty

Private overseas trade of China flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasty with Hainan playing a very important part for its distinctive location. Hainan was once a component part of The Silk Road from the Han dynasty, and then it was involved in the whole overseas trade during the Tang and Song dynasty. In the Qing and Ming dynasty, with the development of national economy and new sea routes, many trading ports appeared for merchant ships to dock, and the overseas trade of Hainan expanded not only to the southeast littorals of Mainland China but also to neighbouring countries such as Japan, Siam and Annam. Exports from Hainan were mainly local specialties, while imports were articles of daily use. The development of Hainan's overseas trade not only promoted local handicraft and commerce but also boosted immigration and sea-god belief in Hainan.