Why did mercantilism require close supervision of the colonies?

Mercantilism required close supervision of the colonies to ensure that they adhered to the economic policies designed to maximize the wealth of the mother country. This involved regulating trade, controlling resources, and preventing colonies from developing independent economies that could compete with the home nation. By closely monitoring colonial activities, the mother country could enforce tariffs, monopolies, and trade restrictions, ultimately ensuring a favorable balance of trade and a steady flow of raw materials and profits.