As global trade continues to be a topic of intense debate, the European Union (EU) is taking steps to ensure its interests are protected, especially with the possibility of a second Donald Trump presidency.
To navigate the challenges ahead, EU diplomats in the United States have hired a lobbying firm with strong ties to the Republican Party, according to Digi24.
The firm, DCI Group AZ, LLC, will advise the EU on strategies for promoting trade and investment in the U.S.
The contract, filed with the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) on November 1, 2024, comes just days before the U.S. presidential election.
The timing indicates that the EU is preparing for the potential impact of Trump’s policies. The Republican candidate has already implemented tariffs on China and threatened more protectionist measures.
While Trump hasn’t targeted the EU directly yet, he has criticized its trade policies and pushed for Europe to buy more American gas, cars, and agricultural products.
The DCI Group, which has a long history of working with Republican interests, will focus on public communication for the EU.
They aim to increase awareness of EU trade opportunities and promote stronger economic ties with the U.S.
However, it’s unclear how long the contract will last or how much the EU delegation is paying for the firm’s services.
The European External Action Service, which oversees the EU’s diplomatic efforts, declined to comment on the specifics of the deal.
DCI Group has been a significant player in Washington since its founding in 1996. The firm has worked with various clients, including controversial entities such as the Myanmar military junta and Azerbaijan's interests in the U.S.
They’ve also faced scrutiny over alleged involvement in hacking incidents related to Exxon Mobil. Despite these issues, the firm maintains a strong presence in U.S. lobbying.
This contract reflects the EU’s efforts to prepare for a potential trade conflict with a second Trump administration.
It remains to be seen how the relationship between the EU and DCI Group will unfold, especially given the firm’s wide-ranging and often controversial client list.
