Quick answer
Trade should turn surplus into progress, not sell the resources needed for your next building, research node, or defense step.
Trade Rules
- Open trade only after local food, wood, stone, storage, and worker needs are stable.
- Trade surplus resources rather than the material needed for the next unlock.
- Use trade to strengthen economy growth after gold production and policies are in place.
- Track trade-related achievements if you are planning a completion route.
Why Trade Matters
Steam describes trade with neighboring kingdoms as a way to grow resources and the economy beyond the local terrain. Exophase also lists trade milestones, including a first distant trade and a 20-trade achievement, which makes trade both a progression system and an achievement route.
Avoid Bad Trades
The safest rule is to trade from surplus. If selling a resource delays your next research, wall, housing, or production upgrade, the trade is probably too early.