The Victoria 3 trade mechanic is a crucial component of your national economy. No matter which nation you choose to play in the historic grand strategy game, you'll need to do business with others in order to provide for your pops - the people who live in your country and make it work.
Starting out in 1836, you'll find that many of your pops' basic needs can be taken care of by building up your domestic industries for staple products. Depending on the conditions in your nation, you'll have different options for agriculture and basic development right away. However, as time marches inevitably on, you'll find that you need to supplement your market with products from abroad so that your pops can provide for themselves and pursue more affluent lifestyles. That's where trade comes in.
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