The Maritime Trade Advantage of India

India played a central role in ancient maritime trade due to its strategic location between China, West Asia, and Europe. The monsoon winds facilitated fast sea transport, allowing ships to traverse routes in just two months, which was significantly quicker than overland camel caravans that could take years. As a result, Indian merchants were able to export luxurious goods such as pepper and silk across vast distances, leading to a thriving economy and cultural exchange. This shift in focus from overland to maritime routes highlights India's influence in shaping trade systems that connected Asia with the Mediterranean.