Indo-Greek, Shaka, Kushana & Satavahana Trade Policies

Between the 2nd century BCE and 3rd century CE, India witnessed significant commercial transformation under foreign dynasties such as the Indo-Greeks, Shakas, and Kushanas, and native powers like the Satavahanas. These empires promoted long-distance trade, urbanisation, and monetisation, developing systematic trade policies that integrated India into global trade networks — from the Mediterranean to East Asia. Their policies not only stimulated economic prosperity but also facilitated cultural exchanges, artistic fusion, and state formation.

Indo-Greek Trade Policies

Background

• Established after Alexander’s successors and Bactrian expansion, the Indo-Greek rulers controlled northwestern India — Gandhara, Taxila, Punjab, and parts of the ....