LEVANT TRADE

Levant trade: translation

In the early 17th century, trade with the eastern Mediterranean and later further afield was organized as an association of merchants. Several of these companies were founded, espe cially in Amsterdam, such as the famous East India Company, but also the Muscovy and Nordic companies. During the period of 1625 and 1826, the Board of the Levant Trade organized the protection of the Dutch trade in the eastern Mediterranean, the payment of consuls in the region, and the recovery of Dutch sailors who had been made slaves by privateers. Commercial firms established business offices in the city of Smyrna, among others. The ships brought back products such as silk and tropical fruits.