# Market Access Inequality

## Definition

The unequal distribution of economic opportunities based on geographical location and access to trade routes, resulting in some regions developing industry and specialisation while others remain at subsistence levels. Market access inequality creates persistent differences in economic development across regions.

## Source Chapter

Book I, Chapter 3

## Context

Smith's analysis shows how coastal regions, areas along navigable rivers, and regions with good canal systems develop industry and specialisation, while inland areas, regions with frozen oceans, or areas with distant rivers remain economically backward, creating persistent inequality.

## Economic Domain

General Theory

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