India hires second US lobbying firm ahead of 50% tariff hike on exports

Ahead of the U.S. imposing 50% tariffs on Indian exports, the Indian Embassy in Washington has hired a second lobbying firm, Mercury Public Affairs, for $75,000/month to handle lobbying and strategic communications. This move follows concerns that India was being outpaced by Pakistan in U.S. influence efforts and comes amid criticism over India's continued purchase of discounted Russian crude oil, which has contributed to the new U.S. tariff hike.