What were the main exports of the West Indies?

The West Indies, particularly during the colonial period, were famous for their sugar exports. Sugarcane plantations thrived in the tropical climate, turning the region into one of the world’s largest suppliers. This sugary treasure significantly contributed to the economies of the islands and was a driving force in the transatlantic slave trade, as enslaved labor was used extensively for cultivation and processing. In addition to sugar, the West Indies also exported significant amounts of tobacco and rum. Tobacco was initially a leading crop, especially in places like Trinidad and Tobago. Rum, distilled from sugarcane byproducts, became a popular export and played a pivotal role in trade, including the infamous "triangular trade" route that connected Europe, Africa, and the Americas.