Why was trade under the mercantilism system restricted?

Under the mercantilism system, trade was restricted to ensure that a country's wealth, measured in gold and silver, remained within its borders. Governments sought to maintain a favorable balance of trade by maximizing exports and minimizing imports, often through protectionist measures such as tariffs and quotas. This approach aimed to strengthen national economies and reduce dependence on foreign goods, ultimately promoting self-sufficiency and national power. Additionally, mercantilist policies often prioritized colonial expansion, further limiting trade to benefit the mother country.