The Crusades significantly influenced trade between the East and West by opening new trade routes and fostering cultural exchange. As European Crusaders ventured into the Middle East, they were introduced to various Eastern goods such as spices, silk, and precious metals. This interaction led to the establishment of trade networks that enabled the transfer of goods, ideas, and technology. Italian city-states like Venice and Genoa played crucial roles in these exchanges, importing exotic products and boosting European economies. The increased demand for Eastern commodities eventually stimulated European exploration and laid the groundwork for later global trade patterns.