Question

Why did the british empire insist on their right to trade opium with china?

Answer 1

The British argued that opium was only a fraction of the volume of trade delivered to China.

Explanation:

Opium was the only trade good that the British could sell in China at a profit. The British had, for centuries, been purchasing Chinese tea with silver, but the Chinese could not be enticed by any manufactured British goods. Opium, however, was another story. It was much stronger and potent than the opium China was able to produce.

Answer 2

The British Empire fought for the right to trade opium with China to open the trade market and to gain the possession of Honk Kong Island. This open many ports to international traders thus enhancing the British political and monetary dominance in the region.