How did new roads and canals strengthen trade under Henry IV?

Under the reign of Henry IV, the French government prioritized the rehabilitation of the economy following the devastation of the religious wars. To facilitate the flow of commerce and strengthen trade, the king, under the direction of Maximilien de Béthune, Duke de Sully, undertook significant infrastructure projects, including the rebuilding of roads and bridges.12

A key initiative in this effort was the development of canals to improve inland transportation. Specifically, the Briare Canal project was initiated to connect the Seine and Loire rivers; while it was the first scheme of its kind in France, it was completed under the reign of Louis XIII. These improvements to the transportation network were part of a broader strategy to restore order and prosperity to the kingdom, complementing Henry IV's efforts to encourage domestic industries—such as silk, cloth, and glassware—and his pursuit of commercial treaties with nations like England and Spain.12