The correct answer is A) Kochi.
Kochi was a major center of spice trade and had close connections with the Portuguese. It was one of the first Indian states to come under Portuguese rule, and it remained a Portuguese possession for over 150 years. During this time, Kochi became a major trading hub for spices and other goods from the East. The Portuguese also built a number of forts and churches in Kochi, which helped to shape the city’s culture and architecture.
Kozhikode, Kollam, and Kannur were also important centers of spice trade, but they did not have as close connections with the Portuguese as Kochi did. Kozhikode was ruled by the Zamorin dynasty, which was hostile to the Portuguese. Kollam was under the control of the Chera dynasty, which was more open to trade with the Portuguese. Kannur was ruled by the Kolathiri dynasty, which was also hostile to the Portuguese.
In conclusion, Kochi was the major center of spice trade that had close connections with the Portuguese.