The Indian Embassy in Washington, DC has hired a second lobbying firm to advance India's interests in the United States, just days before the Trump administration's new 50% tariff on Indian exports goes into effect.

Key Highlights

• India hires Mercury Public Affairs for $75K monthly to bolster U.S. lobbying before 50% export tariffs.
• Mercury, tied to Trump insiders like Susie Wiles, will support media relations, federal lobbying, and strategy.

According to filings under the America's Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), the Embassy signed a three-month contract with Mercury Public Affairs for $75,000 (approximately Rs 65.5 lakh) per month beginning August 15. The total deal value is $225,000 (approximately Rs 1.96 crore). Mercury will provide federal lobbying, media outreach, social media strategy, advertising, and digital auditing services to India until mid-November 2025.

Susie Wiles, President Donald Trump's close aide and current Chief of Staff, previously led Mercury's Washington, DC, and Florida offices before joining Trump's 2024 campaign. Since Trump's re-election, Denmark, Ecuador, Armenia, and South Korea have all hired Mercury as well.

This new contract expands India's existing lobbying efforts in Washington. India already pays SHW Partners LLC, led by Trump's former adviser Jason Miller, $1.8 million (approximately Rs 15.7 crore) per year for strategic advice, government relations, and image management.

Also Read: Trump's 50% Tariffs on India Spark Boycotts, Push for Self-Reliance

India's increased lobbying comes as the Trump administration doubles down on trade sanctions. Indian exports will face a 50% tariff beginning August 27, 2025, which includes a 25% existing reciprocal tariff plus a new 25% levy. The White House has also warned India of possible secondary sanctions if it continues to buy Russian oil.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has advanced even further in Washington. Despite its economic difficulties, Islamabad now spends approximately $600,000 (Rs 5.2 crore) per month on lobbying, according to FARA records. It has hired at least six firms to improve its communications with the White House, the US Congress, and federal agencies.