Salt Commission

Salt Commission is a historical governmental body responsible for the regulation and taxation of salt production and distribution in various countries. The most notable Salt Commissions were established in China during the Tang Dynasty and in France under Napoleon Bonaparte.

History

The Salt Commission in China was established in 758 AD during the reign of Emperor Suzong of Tang. It was responsible for the regulation of salt production and distribution, and the collection of salt taxes. The commission played a significant role in the economic development of the Tang Dynasty, as salt was a major source of state revenue.

In France, the Salt Commission, also known as the Gabelle, was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in the early 19th century. The commission was responsible for the collection of the salt tax, which was a significant source of revenue for the French state. The salt tax was highly unpopular and was one of the contributing factors to the French Revolution.

Function

The primary function of a Salt Commission is to regulate the production and distribution of salt, and to collect taxes on salt. This includes setting the price of salt, determining who can produce and sell salt, and enforcing regulations and taxes. The commission also plays a role in preventing and punishing salt smuggling, which is a common problem due to the high taxes on salt.

Impact

The Salt Commissions had a significant impact on the economies of the countries in which they were established. In China, the Salt Commission was a major source of revenue for the state, and helped to fund the military and other state expenses. In France, the salt tax collected by the Salt Commission was a significant source of revenue, but was also a major cause of social unrest and contributed to the French Revolution.

See also

• Salt in Chinese history
• Gabelle
• History of salt