Zhang Qian hurriedly replied, "Your Majesty, the court and government are now strongly supporting industry and commerce, and we have no difficulties. With Your Majesty's wise leadership above and the active participation of the people below, we have no objections."

"Yes, we have no difficulties or opinions."

The other merchants quickly chimed in to agree.

"Oh? Since you have no difficulties or opinions, then what are you here for? Just to see me?"

As he spoke, Liu Hong also looked at Zhang Qian and the group of merchants in the hall with amusement.

"this......"

Upon hearing this, Zhang Qian and the others lowered their heads, stammering and unsure how to respond.

Seeing everyone's reaction, Liu Hong frowned and said, "Speak your mind."

"Your Majesty, we have come here today to discuss the matter of setting sail. We hope Your Majesty will allow us to organize a fleet and conduct business in Donglai."

"Going overseas to do business?"

Upon hearing this, Liu Hong was taken aback and looked at everyone with considerable surprise.

"Your Majesty, when we went to Bohai to do business, we encountered people from the Three Han Kingdoms and the land of Gou Nu. We learned that they were experiencing a severe shortage of various goods, which led to this idea..."

Subsequently, a businessman who ran a transportation business recounted in detail what he had seen and heard to Liu Hong.

"Good, that's a good thing. You can just go to the government office to apply. Why bother coming to see me?"

Liu Hong smiled and looked at everyone with curiosity.

Zhang Qian respectfully replied, "Your Majesty, the government has approved our application, but the shipyards and ports there are too small to support us in forming a large fleet, therefore..."

"Oh, I see. You all hope that the imperial court can expand the port and build a shipyard in Donglai?"

"Yes, Your Majesty, we are also willing to donate money to help the court with the construction." The crowd quickly chimed in.