According to Dependency Theory, how do trade imbalances contribute to the perpetuation of underdevelopment in less developed countries?

Dependency Theory suggests that less developed countries (LDCs) often remain poor because they rely heavily on wealthier nations for trade. When LDCs export raw materials and import finished goods, they create a trade imbalance that keeps them dependent on richer countries. This means LDCs earn less money from their exports than they spend on imports, which limits their ability to invest in local industries and improve their economies. For example, if a country produces coffee but has to buy expensive machines from richer countries, it cannot grow its economy effectively. As a result, the cycle of dependency continues, preventing these countries from developing and becoming self-sufficient.