Dynamics and balance of Russian foreign trade through the ports of the Black and Azov seas in late 18th century

Abstract

The article focuses on the process of formation
of Russian foreign commerce in the Azov and
Black Sea region in late 18th century, which had some
specific features. The spread of commerce tended to
be uneven, depending on geographic location of trading
cities. The turnover of such old ports as Taganrog,
Ochakov and Yevpatoria was bigger than that of newlybuilt
trade harbors (Sevastopol and Mariupol). The ports
located closer to big rivers and convenient for unimpeded
trade (e.g. Taganrog and Odessa) were preferred
by the traders to the ports which were harder to reach
(Sevastopol, Ochakov, Kerch and Yenikale). Besides,
the gap between the successful ports and the rest was
getting wider and by the end of the 18th century Odessa
and Taganrog had nearly monopolized the trade in the
region. Another notable feature of the Azov and Black
Sea region commerce was a trade balance, which was
uncommon for the Russian market in general.