Who controlled most of the spice trade during the early 1400s?

During the early 1400s, the spice trade was primarily controlled by Arab and Venetian traders. They monopolized the routes and distribution networks, bringing spices from the East, particularly from regions like India and the Spice Islands, to European markets. This dominance continued until the rise of Portuguese exploration in the late 15th century, which eventually shifted control over the spice trade.