Prussian Tariff of 1818

Prussian history

Also known as: Prussian Customs Law of 1818

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July 13, 2026

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The Prussian Tariff of 1818 was a pivotal piece of legislation that significantly impacted German economic history. Introduced for the entire kingdom, it simplified customs dues and established moderate tariffs. This tariff became the foundational basis for the Zollverein (Customs Union) in 1834, which gradually expanded to include most German states by 1871, excluding only Austria and a few port cities.123

The Zollverein created a free-trade area within Germany, removing internal customs barriers and fostering economic integration. This was a crucial step towards German unification, as it facilitated the growth of industry and transportation networks, and allowed German businesses to better compete with foreign industries. Prussia's leadership in establishing and expanding the Zollverein also enhanced its political influence among the German states.435

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international trade
The Zollverein
A common tariff, the Prussian Tariff of 1818, shielded the member states from foreign competition, but free trade was the rule internally.
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A common tariff, the Prussian Tariff of 1818, shielded the member states from foreign competition, but free trade was the rule internally.
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Germany
Reform and reaction
…reformers succeeded in enacting the Prussian Customs Law of 1818, which united all the Prussian territories into a customs union free of internal economic barriers; this later formed the nucleus of a national customs union. The agitation for political reorganization, however, was loudest among university students, who formed patriotic groups…
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…reformers succeeded in enacting the Prussian Customs Law of 1818, which united all the Prussian territories into a customs union free of internal economic barriers; this later formed the nucleus of a national customs union. The agitation for political reorganization, however, was loudest among university students, who formed patriotic groups…
Read More