The second development was the vigorous emergence of "special trade", which in just about four months contributed tens of millions of francs to the treasury.
Moreover, thanks to the sales volume of smuggling trade, the output of factories across France increased significantly, leading to a substantial rise in tax revenue.
However, Joseph knew that smuggling could not be sustained indefinitely. Currently, they were merely exploiting a gap that England had not yet focused on, and once the British reacted, with their rigorous fleet inspections and blockades, smuggling volumes would surely decline drastically.
Joseph estimated that the benefits from "special trade" could only be maintained for a maximum of one more year. Without a strong navy, France was still no match for England on the sea.
Of course, France had already completed tax reforms, abolishing local taxes and most tolls, and the momentum of industrial and commercial development was promising.
