The Muscovy Company

The Muscovy Company was an English trading organization founded in 1555, primarily to establish trade routes and commercial relations with Russia (historically called Muscovy). It aimed to facilitate exports of English woolen goods and import Russian furs, wax, and timber. As one of the earliest joint-stock companies, it had exclusive rights to trade with Russia for several decades, helping England expand its global commerce. The company played a key role in fostering diplomatic relations and developing maritime trade routes, contributing to England’s economic growth and exploration efforts during the late Middle Ages and early modern period.