What were the major trade relations of ancient India with other civilizations?

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What were the major trade relations of ancient India with other civilizations?

Ancient India had major trade relations with several civilizations, including:

1. Mesopotamia: Ancient India had trade links with Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) as early as the 3rd millennium BCE. The Indus Valley Civilization had trade contacts with Mesopotamian cities like Ur and Sumer.

2. Egypt: Trade relations between ancient India and Egypt can be traced back to the time of the Indus Valley Civilization. Indian goods such as textiles, spices, and precious stones were highly sought after in Egypt.

3. Persia: Ancient India had extensive trade relations with the Persian Empire. The Persians imported Indian textiles, spices, and precious stones, while India received Persian goods like horses, gold, and silver.

4. China: Ancient India had trade links with China through the Silk Road. Indian goods such as textiles, spices, and precious stones were traded for Chinese silk, porcelain, and tea.

5. Rome: The Roman Empire had trade relations with ancient India, particularly during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Indian goods like spices, textiles, and precious stones were highly valued in Rome.

6. Southeast Asia: Ancient India had significant trade relations with Southeast Asian countries like present-day Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. Indian merchants traded goods such as textiles, spices, and precious stones in exchange for local products.

These trade relations played a crucial role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences between ancient India and other civilizations.