Legal Battle Erupts Over Mezcal's Origin: Oaxaca vs. Aguascalientes

Oaxaca Mezcal Producers Take Legal Action Against Aguascalientes Over Cultural Appropriation MEXICO CITY, May 28, 2025 – Mezcal producers in Oaxaca have launched a legal battle against Aguascalientes, accusing the state of cultural appropriation and the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI) of negligence. The dispute centers on the IMPI's expansion of the Mezcal Denomination of Origin (DOM) to include Aguascalientes, a move Oaxacan producers claim lacks proper analysis and undermines their traditional rights. Roberto García Chagoya, president of the National Chamber of the Mezcal Industry (Canaimez), stated, "On May 21st, we filed a review against the DOM expansion for Aguascalientes, outlining five grievances and providing evidence." The producers also filed an amparo lawsuit on May 22nd, arguing that the IMPI's actions violate the American Convention on Human Rights. The IMPI will now decide on the matter. This legal action highlights the ongoing tensions between states over mezcal production and the importance of protecting traditional cultural practices and industries. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the future of mezcal production in Mexico.