Longqing Opening and the Easing of Ming Maritime Bans

Timeline

1. 1573Yuegang, Zhangzhou Prefecture · ZhangzhouIn the early Wanli years, the Ming continued the Longqing-era policy of opening Yuegang to private overseas trade. Merchants had to obtain licenses and pay fees, conducting legal trade with Southeast Asia and elsewhere under official supervision, as the maritime ban shifted from total prohibition to limited opening.
2. 1573Southeast coast · East ChinaAfter the maritime ban was relaxed, private merchant vessels increasingly plied between Yuegang, Quanzhou, and other ports. Silk, porcelain, and other goods were exported in large quantities, while silver flowed into China via Manila and elsewhere. Coastal towns prospered economically, though smuggling and piracy also posed governance challenges.