A cultivated commodity grown for its market value rather than for use by the cultivator is known as an agricultural product raised for sale or export. These crops are typically cultivated on a large scale, often in plantations or large farms, for sale to distant markets. Examples include sugar, cotton, tobacco, and indigo, all of which played significant roles in shaping global trade patterns.
The cultivation of such commodities significantly impacted global economies and social structures throughout history. It fueled trade networks, leading to both economic growth and the exploitation of labor. Regions specializing in particular cultivations became heavily reliant on their production, exposing them to price fluctuations and economic vulnerabilities. Furthermore, the demand for labor in fields producing for profit often resulted in the use of forced labor systems, including slavery and indentured servitude.
