Minnesota exports got off to a slower start in 2026. According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, first quarter exports totaled $5.8 billion, down 8% from the same period a year ago.
The decline was largely driven by a sharp drop in mineral fuel and oil exports to Canada, which fell by more than $628 million. DEED says that trend has continued since the second quarter of 2025.
Excluding fuel exports to Canada, Minnesota’s other exports actually increased 2%. Strong growth was seen in electrical equipment, up 26%, along with oil seeds and grains, fertilizers, cereals and aluminum products.
Exports to Europe, Africa, Latin America and the Australia-Pacific region all posted gains, while shipments to Canada and China declined.
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