What was the primary reason for trade between Asians and the US?

Trade between Asians and the United States was largely driven by the concept of mutual benefit, where both parties sought goods that the other had to offer. In this context, Americans had products like tea and cloth that were highly valued in Asia. This exchange facilitated strong economic ties as traders recognized the value in what the other side could provide.

The appeal of American goods in Asia, particularly items that were not as readily available locally, created a robust demand from Asian markets. This relationship was foundational in establishing trade routes and mutual economic interests, which further led to cultural exchanges and heightened diplomatic relations.

Access to advanced technology and demand for American raw materials were indeed aspects of the broader trade dynamics, but they do not encapsulate the primary motivator behind specific trade interactions like the direct desires for particular goods, such as tea and cloth. Additionally, mutual defense agreements do not pertain to trade relationships in the same way, as they are more focused on military cooperation rather than economic exchange. Thus, the essence of trade was primarily about fulfilling each other's needs through valued commodities.