Final answer:
Despite the disruption caused by Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch merchants, intra-Asian trade and merchants in the Indian Ocean trading network maintained continuity. Other merchants found alternative routes and continued trading, leading to the continuation of trade in the region.
Step-by-step explanation:
Despite the disruption caused by Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch merchants, intra-Asian trade and merchants in the Indian Ocean trading network maintained continuity. The Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch merchants attempted to control and monopolize the trade routes and resources, but other merchants and trading networks adapted and continued their activities.
For example, when the Dutch tried to maintain their spice monopoly, other ships' captains from different countries found alternative routes and returned to Europe with spices purchased from Southeast Asian kingdoms that were not under European control. Additionally, the growth of European trading networks and increased volume of spices being shipped to Europe drove down prices and profits, allowing other merchants to enter the market.
In Asia, while the Europeans established colonies and occupied certain areas, they were unable to successfully wage war on the powerful kingdoms of China, India, and Japan. These Asian powers remained rich, powerful, and admired for their wealth and power. Therefore, despite the disruption caused by European merchants, trade and merchants in the intra-Asian region and the Indian Ocean trading network persevered.