kangō trade

The term "kangō trade" refers to a system of formal trade relations between Japan and Ming dynasty China, initiated in the 15th century. This trade was distinguished by the use of official seals, or kangōfu, provided by the Ming emperor to identify legitimate Japanese trading vessels and suppress piracy.1

This formalized trade was crucial for supplementing the finances of the Japanese bakufu (shogunate) and for addressing piracy issues that affected both China and Korea. Profits from this trade were significant for the bakufu, though control later shifted to powerful Japanese families. The trade involved the exchange of goods, with Japan importing items like cotton and special products from regions such as the Ryukyu Islands and the South Seas.1

The kangō trade eventually ceased with internal conflicts in Japan, leading to a resurgence of piracy.1