Why did britain adopt mercantilist policies for the american colonies? britain believed that trading with other nations would not benefit the colonies. britain believed the colonies should develop an independent economy. britain wanted the colonies to offer other nations poor goods at high prices. britain did not want trade with the colonies to enrich its competitors.

The correct option is BRITAIN DID NOT WANT TRADE WITH COLONIES TO ENRICH ITS COMPETITORS.
Mercantilism is a form of economy policy which was designed to maximize the trade status of Britain and ultimately to increase the wealth of the nation. The policy encourage exporting of goods but discourages importing. Also, the policy forbid the colonies from trading with other nations.