The primary reason trade networks led to the spread of Islam is that Islamic merchants acted as missionaries along trade routes.
As merchants engaged in trade, they established connections and relationships with people in various regions. Through their interactions, they shared their beliefs and practices, often incorporating elements of Islam into their social and economic interactions. The presence of Islamic merchants in key trading cities facilitated the exchange of ideas, including religious beliefs, contributing to the spread of Islam across different cultures and regions.
While other options mention aspects related to trade and the spread of Islam, the direct role of merchants as informal missionaries is the most significant factor in this context.