portorium

Portorium refers to a type of tax or duty levied in ancient Rome. These taxes were typically collected at ports, hence the name, but also at land borders and on major roads within the empire. The collection of portoria was a significant source of revenue for the Roman state.

The administration of portoria was often managed by publicani, private companies or individuals who bid for the right to collect taxes in specific regions. These publicani were responsible for assessing, levying, and collecting the duties, and they paid a lump sum to the state. This system could sometimes lead to corruption and exploitation of taxpayers.

The rates for portoria varied depending on the type of goods being transported and the specific region. They were generally a percentage of the value of the goods. Goods considered essential or being transported for the benefit of the state might have been exempt or subject to lower rates.

The collection of portoria was a vital part of the Roman economy, facilitating trade and funding state activities. However, it also represented a burden on merchants and travelers, and the practices of the publicani were a frequent subject of complaint throughout Roman history. The system of tax farming, while efficient in revenue generation, was eventually reformed and brought under more direct state control in later periods of the empire.