A new volcanic arc forms at the site of the easternmost transform, and many complications develop in SE Asia (Philippines, etc.) because of transforms turning into arcs, and various subduction-flips as thick (plateau-type) ocean crust refuses to subduct. A new subduction zone develops north of Australia.
Some of the causes of the European voyages of exploration were: 1  Alternate trade routes: Europe was dependent on Middle East countries for the import of spices and was looking for alternate trade routes to Asia and Africa to obtain spices (ginger, nutmeg, clove, cinnamon, etc.) and luxury goods (silk, gold, ivory, etc.) cheaply.
Motives for Exploration - Wealth and Religion. The motives for Spanish, French and English explorers were all different, although in some ways, they were the same. They all wanted to find the Northwest Passage, which they believed was a direct and efficient route to the Orient - home of spices, silks and wealth.