Canada and Mexico are among the top three countries for Minnesota’s agricultural exports, and both countries are expected to retaliate.

Minnesota companies were assessing the damage Tuesday of the nascent trade war between the United States and its three biggest trade partners, an escalating tit-for-tat that could affect billions of dollars in state imports and exports.

Economist John Spry predicts with the new Trump tariffs, the price is going up. “Roughly $100 a month more for the stuff you buy for as long as they’re in effect,” explains Spry, a finance professor at the University of St. Thomas. “These are big tariffs: 25% on everything from Canada and Mexico, except for a lower 10% on energy.”

Strib Voices publishes a mix of commentary online and in print each day. To contribute, click here . ••• “We believe in comparative advantage,” Cargill CEO Brian Sikes said at an Economic Club of Minnesota event last week.

Two of America’s largest retailers, based in Minnesota, are warning prices will increase following President Donald Trump’s new tariffs on imported goods from Mexico, Canada and China.

The visit comes as the U.S. is assisting Australia in acquiring conventionally armed, nuclear-powered attack submarines.

As President Trump's increased tariffs take effect on Tuesday, Gov. Walz is highlighting the impact they could have on Minnesota farmers.

Last year, the state passed a law to tackle a major barrier to cleaner energy: the long bureaucratic delays to get basic permits.