As diesel prices spike, Minnesota's trucking industry feeling the hit from war in Iran
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Gas and diesel prices in Minnesota are nearing record-high prices as President Donald Trump threatens Iran with more bombing if it doesn’t fully open the Strait of Hormuz and agree to a deal he's put forth to end the war.
Fuel prices have skyrocketed since the war on Iran began more than two months ago. According to the AAA, diesel reached a statewide average of $5.43 at the start of May. That’s 14 cents less than the record for Minnesota from June 2022.
John Hausladen, president of the Minnesota Trucking Association, said the spike in diesel prices is putting many truckers in a tough spot.
“It is the second-highest input cost of what they do,” Hausladen told Minnesota Now host Nina Moini.
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The Great Lakes region is being hit especially hard due to issues with local refineries.
“Here in Minnesota, we're doing better because our refining capacity isn't as constricted,” said Hausladen. “But they've had issues going east.”
These costs shifts facing truckers could soon reach everyday Minnesotans — affecting everything from toilet paper to medical supplies.
“We fundamentally do have to pass it on to our customers and they pass it on to the end consumer,” Hausladen said.
But he’s encouraging people to stay hopeful.
“These things are cyclical. It will come back down and we're going to deliver what you need.”
Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.
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