The spice trade. The East Indies specialized in the cultivation, preparation, transport, and merchandising of spices and herbs. New spices that had never been introduced to Europe were being discovered across Asia. Not only new spices, but the known ones as well, cinnamon, cassia, cardamom, ginger, and turmeric were all seasonings that grew exponentially thanks to the climate of Oceania and East Asia. Although land trade routes were common, (particularly the Silk Road) sea trade was where spice trade really grew. China also crossed the waters of the Malay Archipelago to trade in the Spice islands. (The Moluccas or East Indies)
