A specific type of commercial agriculture, characteristic of tropical and subtropical regions, focuses on the large-scale production of a single cash crop. This agricultural system typically involves cultivating crops such as coffee, cocoa, rubber, sugarcane, bananas, or tea for export to developed countries. Historically, this form of agriculture has been associated with significant social and economic consequences, often tied to colonial structures and labor exploitation.
The significance of understanding this agricultural model lies in its historical impact on global trade patterns, labor systems, and land use. It highlights the economic disparities between core and periphery countries and the lasting effects of colonialism on agricultural practices. Examining its historical context helps analyze contemporary issues of fair trade, land rights, and sustainable development in affected regions.