Companhia da Índia Portuguesa

Companhia da Índia Portuguesa was a Portuguese trading company established in 1755 to manage commerce and colonial interests in India and surrounding regions. It was part of Portugal's efforts to compete in the lucrative Indian Ocean trade, focusing on goods like spices, textiles, and other valuable commodities. The company operated as a state-controlled enterprise, aiming to centralize economic activities and improve profitability. Despite some successes, it faced financial difficulties and competition from other colonial powers, ultimately leading to its dissolution in 1820. The company's existence reflects Portugal's strategic approach to maintaining and managing its overseas empire during that period.