What was the main commodity of the trans-Saharan trade route?

The main commodity of the trans-Saharan trade route was gold, which was highly sought after in North Africa and beyond. However, salt was also a crucial trade item, as it was essential for food preservation and human health. Other goods included ivory, textiles, and slaves, but gold and salt were the primary drivers of the trade's economic significance. This trade route facilitated cultural exchanges and contributed to the rise of powerful empires in West Africa, such as the Mali Empire.