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# Monopoly of Sugar Trade

## Definition

The near-exclusive control maintained by Great Britain over sugar imports from West Indian islands, which, while not absolute, remained very nearly complete. This monopoly allowed Britain to regulate sugar imports and exports, with duties being drawn back on exports within specified timeframes to manage the relationship between import volumes and domestic consumption needs.

## Source Chapter

Book IV, Chapter 4

## Context

The chapter contrasts the sugar monopoly with the tobacco monopoly, noting that while sugar imports exceeded domestic consumption, the excess was relatively modest compared to tobacco. This comparison illustrates how drawback policies could be adjusted based on the specific characteristics of different commodities and their trade patterns.

## Economic Domain

Exchange

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