Why did Congress inability to tax good hurt American merchants?

Congress's inability to tax goods under the Articles of Confederation severely hampered American merchants by limiting the federal government's revenue and its ability to regulate trade effectively. Without the power to impose tariffs or taxes, Congress struggled to fund essential services and maintain a stable economy, leading to increased competition from foreign goods. This lack of regulatory control made it difficult for American merchants to thrive, as they faced unfair competition and could not ensure a level playing field in the market. Ultimately, this contributed to economic instability and dissatisfaction among merchants, highlighting the need for a stronger federal government.