How were the European systems of mercantilism free enterprise similar during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries?

During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, both mercantilism and free enterprise systems sought to enhance national wealth, but they approached this goal differently. Mercantilism emphasized state intervention, regulation, and the accumulation of precious metals through trade surpluses, often leading to colonial expansion. In contrast, free enterprise advocated for minimal government interference, promoting individual entrepreneurship and competition. Despite these differences, both systems ultimately aimed to boost economic growth and national power, reflecting a shared belief in the importance of trade and commerce for prosperity.