Recognition in Mexico of the “Champagne” Denomination of Origin

On September 24, 2025, it was published in the DOF the notice by which Mexico registered the Champagne Denomination of Origin as protected. This recognition has legal, commercial and regulatory compliance implications for domestic producers, importers and brands that market sparkling beverages.

What is a Denomination of Origin?

La Federal Industrial Property Protection Act (LFPPI) allows designations of origin registered abroad to be recognized in Mexico, provided that they meet the applicable technical and legal requirements. In this case, Mexico recognizes that Champagne (France) is protected as a DO under the same standards as a national denomination.

With this recognition, DO Champagne is registered in Mexican territory, which implies that no other sparkling drink may use that name, evoke or mislead it if it does not meet the corresponding requirements. This mechanism protects the integrity of the foreign denomination and harmonizes Mexico with international commitments regarding geographical indications. In addition, it strengthens the position of foreign owners in the face of misuse in the Mexican market.

What was published in the DOF?

In the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) on September 24, 2025, the notice was published announcing the Registration of the recognition in Mexico of the DO protected abroad “Champagne”.

The document states that the registration was granted to Interprofessional Champagne Wine Committee (CIVC), based in France, as the owner of the denomination. The publication indicates that the name is protected in Mexico in accordance with the corresponding legal notice and its use must be observed under conditions in accordance with applicable regulations. The protection takes effect the day after it is published.

Why does this change matter?

This recognition is not merely symbolic; it transforms the legal and commercial framework for sparkling drinks in Mexico.

First, reinforces legal certainty for the foreign owner (CIVC) and establishes a clear legal basis against unauthorized uses or misleading evocations.

Second, for domestic producers, distributors or brands with sparkling products, it represents a new regulatory restriction: any use of the word Champagne in Mexico it will be subject to legal control.

Finally, recognition implies that the mechanisms of surveillance, sanction and regulatory compliance of the LFPPI and Mexican authorities (IMPI, PROPHECO) may be applied to cases of violations related to this denomination.

Opportunities

• Alignment with international standards: Mexico aligns its protection regime with global commitments on geographical indications, strengthening its regulatory integration.‍
• Strengthening the market for authentic Mexican sparkling drinks: National brands can be distinguished by protected local names, avoiding competing against the misuse of foreign names.‍
• Competitive advantage for authorized importers: Who distributes Champagne legally they will have regulatory support against imitations or products that attempt to evoke the name without meeting requirements.

Risks and Challenges

• Prohibition of unauthorized use: Any sparkling product that uses the term Champagne without meeting legal criteria, you run the risk of sanctions for administrative violations.
• Business confusion or misleading advertising: Companies may be subject to liability if they use expressions such as “Champagne style” O “Champagne type” that mislead the consumer.
• Review of labeling and promotional materials: Brands that previously used evocative references must make adjustments to avoid violating legal recognition.
• Surveillance and sanctions by Mexican authorities: IMPI and PROFECO may demand compliance, withdraw products from the market or impose sanctions in case of violation.

In Rodriguez, Manzano and Garcia, we support you to align your company with this new recognition. We have experience in Industrial Property and regulatory compliance to ensure that your brand is legally protected in the Mexican market.