2. Trade in Madurai

Madurai was one of the important ancient centres of the textile industry. Korkai was the pearl trade centre. Industrial activity flourished in Madurai. Goods like pepper, pearls, ivory, textiles, gold ornaments, etc., were exported from Tamilnadu.

Glass, coral, wine and topaz were the leading luxurious goods that were imported. The foreign trade brought in many international currencies; one of such major ones was Roman currency. People of ancient Madurai knew coin minting. After the invasion of Romans, roman coins were minted here.

 

Archaeologists yielded evidence from Keezhadi, which proves that trade has been flourished in ancient Madurai. The fragments of wood were brought to the port in Thondi and Madurai, respectively.

 

 

 

Agriculture, weaving, pearl fishery, manufacturing, and construction were the main economic activities of ancient Madurai.

 

            Pepper                                   Types of Millets                          Sugarcane

  

 

        Types of Grams                                Types of Cereals

       

The state played an essential role in constructing and maintaining buildings and infrastructure such as roads and ports. These were funded through taxation to meet economic and social activity needs.  The wealth was divided unequally among the people, which created a class distinction in the long run.