U.S.: Leading Lobbying Foreign Principles, by expenditure
Foreign principalSpending,
in million USD
Govt. of Liberia110.59
Govt. of the Rep. of Liberia72.37
Govt. of Saudi Arabia44.80
Japan External Trade Organization42.71
Govt. of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism26.95
Sing Tao News Corp Ltd26.42
Rep. of the Marshall Islands25.72
Govt. of Abu Dhabi21.57
CCTV America18.39
Govt. of Quebec, Canada15.21
  • Region: United States
  • Time period: 2023
  • Published: Jan 2024

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Apr 14, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

Liberia Dominates Lobbying Spending with Over $182 Million Combined

The Governments of Liberia and the Republic of Liberia lead lobbying expenditures in the U.S., cumulatively spending $182.96 million. The significant investment underscores Liberia's aggressive approach to influence and diplomacy in the U.S., eclipsing other nations by a substantial margin.

Saudi Arabia and Japan Focus on U.S. Relations with $87.51 Million in Spending

Following Liberia, the Government of Saudi Arabia and the Japan External Trade Organization have collectively allocated $87.51 million towards lobbying efforts. Saudi Arabia's strategic expenditure of $44.80 million pairs with Japan's $42.71 million, reflecting their priorities in fostering U.S. relations.

Tourism and Media Investments by The Bahamas and Sing Tao

The Government of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Sing Tao News Corp Ltd emphasize the importance of tourism and media, spending $26.95 million and $26.42 million, respectively. Their investments showcase the value placed on U.S. market influence in these sectors.

Small Nations Engage in Strategic Lobbying

The Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Government of Abu Dhabi demonstrate strategic investments in U.S. lobbying, with expenditures of $25.72 million and $21.57 million, respectively. Despite their smaller size, these entities prioritize U.S. influence to advance their national interests.

CCTV America and Government of Quebec Focus on Soft Power

CCTV America and the Government of Quebec, Canada, together spend $33.60 million on lobbying, highlighting the role of soft power in international relations. With expenditures of $18.39 million and $15.21 million respectively, they underscore the importance of cultural and regional representation in the U.S.

Dominance of Government Entities in Lobbying Expenditures

Government entities from various countries are the primary contributors to U.S. lobbying efforts, representing 90% of the top spenders. This dominance indicates a global recognition of the significance of U.S. policy and decision-making influence.

Discrepancy in Spending Between Top and Bottom Lobbyists

The discrepancy between the highest and lowest spenders among the top ten is notable, with the Government of Liberia spending over seven times more than the Government of Quebec, Canada. This variance reflects differing strategic priorities and financial capacities among entities engaging in U.S. lobbying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which countries lead in lobbying expenditures in the U.S.?

The Governments of Liberia and the Republic of Liberia lead in U.S. lobbying expenditures, spending a total of $182.96 million.

What percentage of the top spenders on U.S. lobbying efforts are government entities?

Government entities represent 90% of the top spenders on U.S. lobbying efforts.

Terms and Definitions

Lobbying is the process of influencing public policy or government decisions by groups or individuals, acting on behalf of third parties. These groups or individuals, known as lobbyists, communicate with government officials on various issues, often providing information, analysis, and arguments to shape the decision towards their client's interests.

In the context of lobbying, foreign principles are non-U.S. entities such as governments, political parties, individuals, or organizations that hire lobbyists to represent their interests in the United States' policy-making process. It can also include U.S. entities that are controlled by foreign principals.

Disclosure in lobbying refers to the act of revealing or making known details about lobbying activities, particularly the amount of money spent, and the parties involved. In the U.S., this is typically required by law under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) and the Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA).

The Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) is a U.S. law enacted in 1938 that requires individuals acting as agents of foreign principals to disclose their relationship, activities, and related financial transactions.

The Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) is a U.S. law enacted in 1995 that mandates lobbyists to register with the House of Representatives and the Senate. It requires disclosure of all lobbying activities, including those by foreign principals.
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