Trading with Minor Nations

[Jammin420]

How do I gain trade with much of the minor nations? Do I just sit a few indiamen in the Mediterranean? Also, damn portugal has all the anchor spots on all the coasts. Literally every one.

[TeutonicKnight]

Minor nations you talk to through the diplomacy screen.

If you are talking about trade zones, you have to take (and hold) an anchor point. I don't believe there is a cap on the number of effective trade ships though. Reminds me of the fort exploit in M2TW. Build a fort on a resource, stuff it full of merchants for the win.

[OberonDark]

Go into the diplomacy menu, and do it like you would for every other nation. And if someone has your spots, take 'em. If it says you can't trade with them, it's because either you or they have their ports trading to the max. Build more trade ports.

[TeutonicKnight]

Actually, you can still trade with them, but it's considered a "land route" and not nearly as profitable until you get the required sea ports.