The Desi Jewish communities are some of the oldest in world, with more than 2000 years of continuity in the Indian subcontinent (such as the Cochin Jews and the Bene Israel). Most of them lived on the coast of the Arabian Sea. They were involved in trade in the Malabar area, also in the production of oil.
The Jewish communities in South Asia, particularly those residing in India, are among the oldest worldwide, with a history spanning over 2000 years. These communities were concentrated on the coast of the Arabian Sea and engaged in commerce in the Malabar area as well as oil extraction.