But there is no coercion here, they are the largest trading partner because they make a lot of great stuff. "Empire" comes with implied negative connotations, but it's a win-win for everyone within this particular "empire".
Imagine you are a small island nation reliant on imports from american companies and american foreign aid and attempt to violate US imposed sanctions on another state. You’d probably lose your seat of power before long from the resulting social unrest from being economically isolated from the US and all her allies. US might even back an upstart power against you with money or arms or paramilitary training.
But there is no coercion here, they are the largest trading partner because they make a lot of great stuff. "Empire" comes with implied negative connotations, but it's a win-win for everyone within this particular "empire".