Price Stabilization Method (平准法)

This method describes the 平准 system for stabilizing prices and managing market supply.

Core Principle

Government intervention to balance supply and demand, preventing merchant manipulation.

Implementation Steps

Step 1: Establish Infrastructure

• Set up central purchasing agency (平准机构)
• Create storage facilities nationwide
• Appoint officials to manage operations

Step 2: Market Monitoring

• Track prices of essential goods
• Identify price manipulation
• Monitor merchant activities

Step 3: Price Intervention

When prices are too high (贵):

1. Release goods from government stores
2. Sell at reasonable prices
3. Increase market supply

When prices are too low (贱):

1. Purchase goods from market
2. Store for future use
3. Support producer prices

Step 4: Distribution Network

• 均输: Establish transport offices in each region
• Collect goods as tax payment
• Redistribute to areas of need

Supporting Policies

Salt and Iron Monopoly

• Government controls production and sale
• Prevents private profiteering
• Ensures stable supply

Currency Control

• Standardize currency
• Prevent counterfeiting
• Control money supply

Taxation

• 算缗钱: Tax on merchant wealth
• Report requirements for assets
• Penalties for underreporting

Expected Outcomes

• 富商大贾无所牟大利
• 万物不得腾踊
• 民不益赋而天下用饶

Warning

Balance intervention with market freedom. Over-control can stifle commerce.

Validation

1. Confirm the target outcomes are achieved: 富商大贾无所牟大利 and 万物不得腾踊
2. Verify that the 均输 distribution network is functioning — goods flow from surplus regions to deficit regions efficiently
3. Check that intervention is balanced — over-control is avoided and commerce is not stifled by excessive government monopolies