In the early Ayutthaya period, trade was conducted mainly by kings, royal members, and noblemen, while private trading was limited. International trade was almost a monopoly, but free trade was still possible. Trade could be done directly between local and foreign merchants. In the middle Ayutthaya period, the king became increasingly involved in international commerce, and all trade had to go through the government. Revenue came from trading rights, profits, and import and export taxes.