Page 543 - PERSIAN GULF ADMINISTRATION REPORTS V1

27
POLITICAL AGENCY POR 1878-79.
RESIDENCY AND HUSKAT

part n.

REPORT ON TRADE OF TIIE PERSIAN GULF FOR 1878.
The diversion of the trade channels from the north to the south
of Persia which was noticed as an effect of the Russo-Turkish war,
although in its nature on the whole temporary, is said to have left, in
some instances, so far, permanent results. The advantages of the south­
ern route, increased by the introduction of more frequent steam commu­
nication, have undoubtedly made themselves felt. The import trade of
this part of Persia has become more English or at least, less affected by
Russian commerce, which, after having made itseff felt in the markets as
far south as Shiraz, and even Bushire, has, of late, .-con throwm back, the
Western European commerce having assumed predominance from the
sea-coast to Ispahan.
2. The difficulty of obtaining trustworthy and accurate data is so
great; the conditions, subject to climate and other important influences
are in South Persia so shifting and precarious that it is not surprising
to find persons well acquainted with the country holding widely different
opinions as to its trade, prospects and possibilities; some considering
operations, both import and export-, already overdone and taking a de­
sponding view of the future; others considering the commerce still capable
of groat development under more favourable conditions than exist. The
real issue probably is whether the required ameliorations come within the
sphere of practical discussion.
'6. The harvests of 1877 and 1878 were plentiful, and shipments of
Grain, $c. wheat and barley in tbe latter year were
still greater than in the former. Even­
tually the Persian Government reimposed prohibition on the exportation
of grain, and this was more effectually enforced than at first. The higli
prices ruling in India and Europe, together with the abundant surplus
from the previous harvests in South Persia, caused the increase in this
branch of trade, which under similar conditions might be expected further
to develop.
4. The rainfall in the winter of 1878-79 was deficient, and the mm
trade therefore is arrested for the present. &
5. Cultivation of the poppy in Persia and exportation of opium
Ojrtnm. through Bushire and Bunder Abbass*
-pi* , . . , steadily increases. The returns for
increase m that article over the previous year of
rupee*
17,54,000. The quality of the Persian opium of 1878 m said to be
superior to that of previous years. Some superintendence is^ridte to
exercised to prevent adulteration,* and
• Chc*t4 are oceaaionallj examined
bj expert*. considerable attention is naturally be*
becoming a mainstay of the T *?***•
01*£’•■*«** t s