How important is trade to the Shackled City?

[Ry]

Is it OK to just plonk the Shackled City down in the middle of wilderness, or are there any important trade routes that bear on the plot? At first glance (my FLGS still doesn't have the book in) it seems like the whole place is more of a very large defensive enclave, rather than a hub of trade or some kind of medieval industry. Is there a point in the adventure where some trade ties are important?

 

[Vascant]

The city is by no means self contained as far as resources go and even in following the AP you will find the party visits a few locations around the city. There are spot references to trade with other cities located nearby. Yet on the other hand, the entire area concerning the AP seems to be designed to drop in a remove location. Just make sure you take into account the mining town and such.