Why did the merchants in ancient China have low social status?

first, in feudal society, the landlord class was the ruling class, and they could arbitrarily plunder the people's money and land through power. However, businessmen accumulated a lot of money through buying and selling, lived a luxurious life like an emperor, and accumulated great ability, which threatened the long-standing rule of the landlord class.

Secondly, the rulers have some difficulties in managing the merchant groups, such as taxation, and the mobility of businessmen has a negative impact on social stability.

Third, the traditional Confucian thought suppresses businessmen and looks down on them.

fourth, the ancient feudal government has long implemented the policy of "emphasizing agriculture and restraining commerce".

Therefore, the social status of ancient businessmen was low, which was deliberately degraded, and their living standards were far higher than those of ordinary people, even some officials.