Facing looming 50% tariffs on exports, India brings on Mercury Public Affairs to enhance strategic communication and lobbying efforts in Washington
India Ramps Up US Lobbying Amid Rising Trade Tensions
In a bid to counter mounting tariff threats and sharpen its influence in Washington, the Embassy of India in the US has hired a second lobbying firm, Mercury Public Affairs, with deep ties to former US President Donald Trump’s political circle.
- The contract, signed on August 15, is valued at $75,000 per month for three months, totaling $225,000.
- Mercury will provide federal lobbying, media relations, digital audits, social media strategy, and advertising support.
Lobbying Team Includes Trump-Era Strategists
The India account at Mercury will be led by:
- David Vitter, former Republican Senator from Louisiana
- Bryan Lanza, former Communications Director for Trump’s 2020 transition team
They will be supported by a four-member team, which notably includes Kevin Thomas, the first Indian-American elected to the New York State Senate.
- Mercury also has indirect ties to Trump’s current Chief of Staff, Susie Wiles, who was a registered lobbyist with the firm until late 2024.
Why the Timing Matters: 50% Tariff Looms
The lobbying move comes just days before the US is set to impose a 50% tariff on several categories of Indian exports.
- New Delhi has slammed the move as “unfair” and “unjustified”, with Indian officials asserting that they will buy oil and trade where they get the best deal, resisting US pressure.
- The tariffs are expected to hit India’s export sectors hard, especially textiles, jewelry, and auto components.
Second Trump-Linked Firm on India’s Payroll
This is not the first lobbying firm with Trump connections hired by the Indian Embassy this year.
- In April 2025, India signed a year-long, $1.8 Mn contract with SHW Partners LLC, led by former Trump aide Jason Miller.
- The firm charges a monthly fee of $150,000 and has been tasked with managing strategic messaging and advocacy in US political circles.
Critics argue that India has been playing catch-up with Pakistan, which had earlier signed a deal with a firm led by Keith Schiller, Trump’s former bodyguard.
Multiple Firms, Multiple Objectives
Hiring multiple lobbying firms is not uncommon for foreign governments.
- Countries sometimes hire up to six firms to handle different lobbying goals, ranging from policy advocacy to image building.
- While some observers warn of potential miscommunication, others view the strategy as a necessary measure to navigate complex political dynamics in Washington.
