Overview

• Oaxaca state authorities have opened negotiations with Adidas to determine compensation for Zapotec artisans and discuss withdrawing the Oaxaca Slip-On design.
• Governor Salomón Jara Cruz formally demanded the sandal’s removal and fair restitution, calling it an appropriation of collective indigenous intellectual property.
• President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that Mexico is advancing heritage-law reforms to require brands to secure community approval and provide compensation for traditional handicraft use.
• Designer Willy Chavarría issued a public apology to the Zapotec community of Villa Hidalgo Yalálag for not partnering directly and respectfully in developing the shoe.
• Local artisans warn that unauthorized reproductions undermine a sector that provides about half a million jobs and makes up roughly 10% of GDP in states like Oaxaca.