Minnesota’s Exports Drop in Second Quarter, Driven by Fuel and Gas Decrease

St. Paul, MN – Minnesota exports of agricultural, mining and manufactured products were valued at $5.8 billion in the second quarter of 2025, a drop of 19% ($1.3 billion) over the second quarter of 2024, according to data released today by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). Mineral fuel and oil exports to Canada accounted for more than half of the decline.

“Minnesota’s export statistics were particularly sensitive to changes in the oil market this quarter, but overall declines to our biggest export markets illustrate the risk of tariff uncertainty to our economy,” said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. “In light of the federal government’s chaotic approach to trade, we’re working to remind our international partners that Minnesota is open for business.”

Canada – Minnesota's largest trading partner and the state's dominant market for mineral fuel and oil – imported 96% less oil (or $703 million less) from Minnesota last quarter than in the second quarter of 2024. Minnesota’s exports of these products – largely consisting of refined products, such as motor fuel – were valued at about $2.5 billion in 2024.

Exports to Mexico and China – Minnesota's second and third largest markets – declined by more than 20% each.

Exports to Ireland, Minnesota’s fifth largest market, increased by 15%, and those to the United Kingdom surged by 52%. Exports to Germany (up 6%) and Switzerland (up 24%) also rose. DEED recently completed a business development mission to Ireland, and will lead a trade mission to Switzerland and Germany this November.

The state’s exports of products other than mineral fuel and oil, combined, fell by 10% in the second quarter. Major product categories with sharp declines included machinery (down 17%), vehicles (down 28%), optic and medical (down 8%), and stone, plaster and cement (down 62%).  

Minnesota’s markets for electrical equipment showed resilience, with global exports growing 7%. Worldwide exports of pharmaceuticals (up 41%), dairy, eggs, honey (up 53%) and aircraft, spacecraft (up 3%) also performed strongly in the second quarter of 2025.

"As global uncertainty continues, the Minnesota Trade Office remains focused on strategic programs and services to help companies expand sales in key export markets,” said MTO Executive Director Gabrielle Gerbaud. “Our upcoming trade mission to Switzerland and Germany will further strengthen Minnesota’s position as a premier source of innovative products and services in these important European markets.”

The full second quarter 2025 report is available on DEED's website in the Export and Trade Statistics section.

DEED is the state’s principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade and community development. Find out how DEED delivers for Minnesota by visiting the DEED website,  JoinUsMn.com, CareerForceMN.com or follow us on X.

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Upon request, this information can be made available in alternate formats for people with disabilities by contacting the DEED Communications Office at 651-259-7161.