Minnesota exports of agricultural, mining and manufactured goods were valued at $5.7 billion in the third quarter of 2025.



Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development Press Release


*For Immediate Release*




Mary Haugen

[email protected]




January 29, 2026

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*Minnesota’s Exports Drop in Third Quarter; Mineral Fuel and Oil Drive Decline*

*St. Paul, MN* - Minnesota exports of agricultural, mining and manufactured goods were valued at $5.7 billion in the third quarter of 2025, a drop of 14% (down $964 million) over the third quarter of 2024, according to data released today by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).

Weaker sales of mineral fuel and oil to Canada, Minnesota's largest trading partner and the state's top export market for numerous products, drove much of the decline. The state exported about $16 million in mineral fuel and oil – largely consisting of refined products, such as motor fuel – to Canada last quarter, down over $500 million from the third quarter of 2024. Sharp declines in some major product categories, such as machinery (down 11%) and vehicles (down 20%), also contributed to the overall downward trend in exports.

“Mineral fuel and oil exports to Canada again had a significant impact on Minnesota’s exports in the third quarter. Federally-imposed tariffs and strained international relations with our traditional partners also continue to impact Minnesota’s trade with our biggest exports markets,” *said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek*. “Despite these challenges, we continue to assure our international partners that Minnesota is open for business – and that included a business development mission to Ireland [ [link removed] ] and a trade mission to Germany and Switzerland [ [link removed] ] last fall.”

Exports to Mexico and China – Minnesota's second and third largest markets, respectively – also struggled, declining by more than 20% each.

Sales to Europe were robust ($1.3 billion, up 7%), with Germany (up 3%), the U.K. (up 2%), Switzerland (up 46%), Turkey (up 60%) and Italy (up 15%) generating the largest European export gains. Minnesota businesses also successfully boosted sales to the Middle East (up 11%) and Africa (up 6%).

The state’s markets for electrical equipment (up 2%) and aircraft, spacecraft (up 3%) showed resilience amid the downturns. Other products showing notable export growth included fertilizers (up 39%), dairy, eggs, honey (up 69%) and miscellaneous edible preparations (up 46%). 

“Our state’s international trade community has faced a tremendous level of uncertainty over the past year due to fluctuating tariff policies,” said *Minnesota Trade Office Executive Director Gabrielle Gerbaud*. “The Minnesota Trade Office continues its vital work to foster positive relationships with our state’s international trade partners and support Minnesota companies – many of which have shown resilience in their efforts to pursue international growth opportunities.” 

The full third quarter 2025 report is available on DEED's website in the Export and Trade Statistics section. [ [link removed] ]

"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" [ [link removed] ]", ""_ _""JoinUsMn.com" [ [link removed] ]", ""CareerForceMN.com" [ [link removed] ]" or"" ""follow us on X" [ [link removed] ]"."

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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."





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