Mexican authorities have accused Adidas and U.S. designer Willy Chavarría of copying the traditional huaraches made in Villa Hidalgo Yalálag, Oaxaca, for their new “Oaxaca Slip-On” sandal. The state’s culture ministry (Seculta) has demanded an immediate halt to sales, public recognition of the design’s Zapotec origin and reparations for the community. The federal government has backed Oaxaca’s complaint. President Claudia Sheinbaum called the design “collective intellectual property,” said compensation is mandatory under Mexico’s Heritage Law and warned that prosecutors are assessing further legal avenues. Sheinbaum added that her administration is drafting legislation to tighten protection of Indigenous craftsmanship after a string of similar disputes involving global fashion brands. Adidas has contacted the Oaxaca government and agreed to begin talks, saying it “deeply values” Mexico’s cultural heritage and is willing to seek a “constructive and respectful” settlement. If negotiations fail, officials signalled they may file suit to enforce Indigenous rights and halt distribution of the sandal.