Economy and Trade

With trade ways running north and south along the Sword Coast, a port on the Sea of Swords, and the Chionthar River leading inland, Baldur’s Gate is perfectly situated for its role as a commercial hub. Craftspeople, merchants, traders, and smugglers all make a brisk living in the city, and many immigrants are drawn by the dream that anyone willing to work hard can be successful in Baldur’s Gate.
Baldur’s Gate has plenty of exports, notably fish, fish glue, and sea salt, but its main economic force is trade itself. The city boasts multiple large and well-connected trade guilds and a marketplace where wholesalers can exchange goods before moving up or down the Sword Coast. Through the Flaming Fist, Baldur's gate dominates the trade from Chult and has significant interests in Matizca.
The number of ships in port and traders making their way north or south mean that Baldur’s Gate boasts one of the most expansive markets in the west. Coin trumps morals in Baldur’s Gate, with profit being the ultimate good. As a result, nearly anything can be bought and sold in the city’s shops, whether it be rare jewels, magic weapons, secrets, alliances, or even murder. People visit the city seeking imports from Port Nyanzaru, verdigris-covered treasures dredged from the sea, blackmail information on political rivals, or custom-brewed poisons.
Though the city has laws regarding the sale of stolen property, smuggling, and contract killing, such crimes are rarely reported and even more rarely enforced. Unless the complainant is a patriar or other powerful individual, law enforcement lacks the time and interest to pursue those engaging in mutually beneficial transactions. The unwritten law is do nothing that interferes with the city’s economy and make your bargains in peace. Individuals who suffer due to morally questionable contracts must seek out private means of obtaining justice.