Tequila and Cachaça: The Alliance Protecting Two of Latin America’s Most Storied Spirits

As international markets demand products with verifiable identity and origin, the protection of denominations of origin has become a strategic asset for national economies. Against that backdrop, Mexico and Brazil have renewed a commitment that strengthens the economic, cultural, and commercial value of two of their most representative spirits.

Ten years after the agreement that mutually recognized Tequila and Cachaça as Geographical Indications and Distinctive Products, Aurelio López Rocha, President of the Consejo Regulador del Tequila (CRT), alongside the Instituto Brasileño de Cachaça (IBRAC) and the Asociación Nacional de Cachaça de Alambique (ANPAQ) signed a new cooperation agreement to reinforce the protection, authenticity, traceability, and responsible promotion of both spirits.

The decision responds to a decisive reality of international trade: a denomination of origin distinguishes a product, protects an entire production chain, builds consumer trust, and preserves the added value that only a specific territory can provide.

Brazil represents one of the most strategic markets for the tequila industry. Between 2021 and 2025, the country received more than 4.12 million liters of Tequila, while the CRT maintains permanent monitoring and inspection operations to ensure that Brazilian consumers receive an authentic product.

During the ceremony, the Distintivo T was also awarded to the Brazilian establishment Iracema — a recognition that certifies its commitment to the proper promotion, service, and culture of Tequila, and reinforces the presence of Mexico’s most iconic spirit in international markets.

In an economy where authenticity has become a decisive competitive advantage, protecting origin means protecting the future of entire industries. The challenge is no longer simply expanding distribution — it is preserving the value of something no other country can replicate.