Galactic trade routes are pathways in space that connect different planets and star systems, facilitating the exchange of goods and resources. These routes are crucial for interstellar commerce, allowing traders to transport items like minerals, food, and technology between various civilizations. These routes often follow specific paths to avoid hazards such as asteroid fields and black holes. They can be influenced by factors like political alliances and economic demand, making them vital for the prosperity of different galactic factions and ensuring the flow of trade across the universe.