The most accurate response regarding the effects of the Portuguese maritime empire in the Indian Ocean is:
The Portuguese maritime empire continued the Columbian Exchange, expanded global trade, expanded Christianity’s influence, and led to the suppression of local customs and beliefs.
This statement reflects the historical reality of the Portuguese presence in the Indian Ocean, where they established a network of trade routes, contributed to the spread of new goods and ideas as part of the Columbian Exchange, sought to promote Christianity, and often disregarded or suppressed local cultures and traditions in the regions they controlled.