Starbucks Using Aztec, Pre-Aztec Images Without Permission, Says Mexican Government

MEXICO CITY (AP) -- The Mexican government says it has notified Starbucks Corp. that Mexico is owed intellectual property rights for a line of coffee mugs showing pre-Hispanic images.

Starbucks says it is working with Mexico to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. It says the mugs have been removed from its shop shelves pending the discussions.

The mugs show images of the Aztec calendar stone and the Pyramid of the Moon from the pre-Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan, near Mexico City.

The government archaeological agency said Wednesday it will decide by next week whether Starbucks should pay any fees.

A company statement says the supplier of the mugs felt it made good faith efforts to offer payment and obtain permits.