Following three decades of intensive development, early Ming Dynasty China enjoyed a prosperous agricultural sector and flourishing social economy. The handicrafts industry had made great strides, while mining and metallurgy, textiles, porcelain production, papermaking, and printing all had advanced to varying degrees. Chinese silk and porcelain was highly regarded throughout Europe, with production increasing in response to the new demands of the foreign market. Advances in shipbuilding and navigational technology, including adoption of the magnetic compass and acquisition of extensive maritime expertise, as well as the development of an industrial base, combined to create the solid economic foundation and material conditions necessary for Zheng He's transoceanic western voyages.