Tariffs and Uncertainty Drive 13% Decline in Minnesota Exports Between 2024 and 2025



Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development Press Release


*For Immediate Release*




Mary Haugen

[email protected]




April 13, 2026

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*Tariffs and Uncertainty Drive 13% Decline in Minnesota Exports Between 2024 and 2025*

*St. Paul, MN - *Minnesota exports of agricultural, mining and manufactured goods were valued at $23.5 billion last year, a drop of $3.4 billion (down 13%) over 2024, according to the annual exports report released today by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). U.S. exports grew 6% in 2025, although about half of all states experienced declines that year. 

Exports of mineral fuel and oil to Canada — which surged in 2024 and was the dominant contributor to the state's export growth that year — fell by $1.7 billion in 2025 and drove about half of the overall exports decline. This category includes products such as motor fuel or lubricants.

“The federal administration’s erratic tariffs and aggressive foreign policies that began last year continue to take a toll on Minnesota companies trying to plan their import and export strategies,” said *DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek*. “Our state’s international partners know we value our relationships with them, and they recognized Minnesota’s resolve and resilience during Operation Metro Surge, but federal actions remain a major hurdle. Despite these challenges, we continue to foster vital relationships and forge mutually beneficial trade opportunities that contribute billions of dollars to our state’s economy.”

While vehicles (down 19%), machinery (down 10%) and optic and medical products (down 5%) fell significantly over the year, electrical equipment exports showed resilience (up 7%).  Dairy, eggs, honey (up 62%), oil seeds, misc. grains (up 15%) and pharmaceuticals (up 23%) grew solidly.

Minnesota exporters’ sales struggled in North America (down 24%) and Asia (down 9%). Regions that showed promising growth in 2025 included European markets outside the EU, driven by the U.K. and Switzerland, as well as the Caribbean and South America, led by Argentina, Chile and the Dominican Republic.  

“Our office provides comprehensive services to help Minnesota’s hard-working exporters pursue international growth opportunities and establish new connections in foreign markets,” said *Minnesota Trade Office (MTO) Executive Director Gabrielle Gerbaud.* “Our trade and business development missions to European countries in 2025 created new partnerships, nurtured longstanding relationships and brought visibility to Minnesota's innovative industries. MTO also brings a strategic presence to international industry events to promote Minnesota as a great place to do business."

The full 2025 Minnesota exports 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] ], Do Business [ [link removed] ], _""_CareerForce.MN.gov [ [link removed] ]_"", or by following us on social media [ [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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