Final answer:
The true statement regarding European exploration in Asia is that Portugal seized the island of Goa as a major military and commercial base. Portugal was pivotal in establishing early European influence in Asia and controlled the lucrative spice trade for some time before facing competition from other European nations.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of European exploration in Asia, Portugal played a significant role. The statement that Portugal seized the island of Goa, making it their major military and commercial base is true. Under the leadership of Afonso de Albuquerque, Portugal seized Goa and it became an essential part of their trade network in early 1500s. Contrary to Spain being the first, it was Portugal that initially established a foothold in Asia and controlled much of the spice trade. The Portuguese's monopoly over the spice trade included precious spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and black pepper, which were brought back to Europe and passed through Lisbon, resulting in decreased prices of these once costly spices.
While Portugal had early success in controlling the spice trade, they eventually faced difficulties maintaining this control due to competition. The Portuguese monopoly was challenged not only by Venice but also later by other European powers like the Dutch and the British. These challenges occurred due to the inability to control spice production and the prevalence of illegal trading. The spice trade was essential to European powers because it was not only lucrative but also weakened the Muslim control over the trade and promised to strengthen the Christian world.
The Portuguese influence in Asia began after the Treaty of Tordesillas when they established strategic ports in various locations across Asia. Still, their dominance was eventually challenged by other European nations, leading to a shift in control over Asian trade.