Customs regulation in Russia in the first quarter of the 19th century: the choice of path to economic development

The article analyzes the features of forming the economic policy in the first quarter of the 19th century within the development and adoption of customs tariffs. The paper describes the views on customs regulation by O.P. Kozodavlev, the Minister of Internal Affairs, a supporter of the protectionist policy, and D.A. Guriev, the Minister of Finance promoting the idea of free trade. The study defines the reasons for the introduction of the protectionist tariff in 1810, its subsequent replacement by the free trade tariff and then return to the prohibitive one. The hesitation in the government of Alexander I concerning the customs issue is explained by the necessity to maneuver between the compliance with international arrangements and the protection of economic interests of the Russian state. In conclusion, the author argues about the direct relationship between the successful development of Russian industry and the protectionist customs policy, which had further negative consequences.