French Mercantilism was an economic theory and practice that dominated France from the 16th to the 18th centuries. It emphasized the importance of state intervention in the economy, aiming to increase national wealth through a favorable balance of trade. The government sought to accumulate precious metals, such as gold and silver, by promoting exports and limiting imports. Under Jean-Baptiste Colbert, the finance minister of King Louis XIV, French Mercantilism was further developed. Colbert implemented policies to support domestic industries, improve infrastructure, and establish colonies, which provided raw materials and markets for French goods. This approach aimed to strengthen France's economic power in Europe.