Which is the main reason that goods transported over the Silk Road were so expensive?

The main reason goods transported over the Silk Road were so expensive was the long and complex supply chain involved in their journey. Items often passed through multiple hands and regions, each adding their markup due to transportation costs, tariffs, and the risk of loss or theft. Additionally, the rarity and high demand for exotic goods like silk, spices, and precious metals significantly drove up their prices. The arduous travel conditions and the need for specialized caravans also contributed to the overall expense.