After Treveris was elevated to an Imperial residence around 300 AD, the economic basis and trade networks of the city changed. Until the 3rd century AD, Trier had become an important economic centre in Gaul. The basis of prosperity was above all textile production. Merchants from Trier were particularly active in Gaul. With the presence of the imperial court, the economic importance increased and changed. The city was probably not only the most populous in Gaul, but also a lucrative market for luxury products due to the presence of numerous officials and soldiers. Instead of being a strongly export-oriented municipality, Treveris became a major centre of consumption. This becomes particularly clear in the case of archaeologically proven Mediterranean goods and luxury goods. In addition, state-owned factories ensured a change in production ratios. For example, the production of terra sigillata was abandoned, while Trier became a centre for the glass industry, presumably also with the production of diatret glass. In addition, the demand for construction materials and services for the residence was very high. The paper will present a first attempt to explain the economic consequences of the foundation of the imperial residence on the basis of archaeological finds and written sources.