Producers can create their maximum combination of goods, as long as they

If the producers correctly allocate their resources they can create the maximum combination of goods. It all comes down to correct planning and making the best of what you have. Consumers and demand play a significant role in production of goods but all that is for nothing if the producers don’t prepare. Otherwise they would lose profit as they wouldn’t maximize their potential.  

an unexpected salary cut

cultural/diplomatic relations. most medieval japanese   culture has chinese origins. writing, architecture etc.