Final answer:
In a mercantilist economic system, the relationship between imports and exports is characterized by maximizing exports and minimizing imports to amass wealth, which is reflected in option C, where exports exceed imports.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relationship between imports and exports in a mercantilist economic system is that exports are maximized and imports are minimized to accumulate wealth. The correct option is C: Exports exceed imports to accumulate wealth. Under mercantilism, governments imposed high tariffs and prohibitions on certain goods to protect domestic industries and thus promote economic growth domestically. By maximizing exports, a nation could collect more gold and silver, increasing its wealth, whereas importing goods would mean exporting precious metals to other nations. Mercantilism also involved granting monopolies and other exclusive rights to domestic firms, establishing colonies for resources and markets, and funding internal improvements.