Why was the wide extent of the Olmec trading network significant?

The wide extent of the Olmec trading network was significant because the Olmec culture influenced the trade routes that passed from nearby or through the major settlements of the Mesoamerican civilization.

Explanation:

The Olmec trading network was one of the world's oldest trading networks and was active throughout the entire Mesoamerican civilization which had its settlements in the south-central parts of present-day Mexico. The Olmecs of the Mesoamerican civilization had succeeded in disseminating their culture in such a way that the trade routes passing through and from nearby the civilization always remained under their influence.

The wide extent of the Olmec trading network was that it resulted in the spreading of the Olmec culture.