# Frozen Ocean Barrier

## Definition

The natural barrier to navigation and trade created by Arctic and sub-Arctic waters that remain frozen for much of the year. Frozen oceans prevent maritime commerce and limit the development of markets and specialisation in regions dependent on such waterways.

## Source Chapter

Book I, Chapter 3

## Context

Smith identifies the frozen ocean of Tartary as a barrier that admits of no navigation, contributing to the barbarous and uncivilized state of inland Africa and northern Asia by preventing maritime commerce and limiting market development.

## Economic Domain

Exchange

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