Mexico threatens to sue Google over ‘Gulf of America’ label on Maps

MEXICO CITY – Mexico will take Google to court if it does not fully restore the name “Gulf of Mexico” on Google Maps for U.S.-based users, President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday.

Sheinbaum argued that U.S. President Donald Trump’s order to rename the body of water as the “Gulf of America” only applies to the portion under U.S. jurisdiction. Mexico controls 49% of the Gulf, while the U.S. has 46% and Cuba 5%, according to Mexican officials. The name “Gulf of Mexico” dates back to 1607 and is recognized officially by the United Nations.

Sheinbaum shared a letter from Cris Turner, Google’s vice president of government affairs and public policy, stating that the company will not reverse its decision. Google cited a policy of following “longstanding map practices impartially and consistently across all regions” and offered to meet with Mexican officials.

Currently, Google Maps labels the body of water as the “Gulf of America” for U.S. users, the “Gulf of Mexico” for Mexican users, and the “Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America)” elsewhere.

Sheinbaum rejected the renaming, calling it “incorrect.” She emphasized that Trump’s decree applies only to the U.S. continental shelf, which extends 22 nautical miles from the coast, and does not cover the entire Gulf.

“Under no circumstance will Mexico accept the renaming of a geographic zone within its own territory and under its jurisdiction,” Mexican authorities said in response to Google’s letter.

The dispute has added tension between the neighboring countries at a sensitive time. Sheinbaum has sought to maintain diplomatic stability with Trump, despite his threats of tariffs and mass deportations affecting Latin America.

Along with the legal threat to Google, Sheinbaum announced that Mexico and the U.S. will hold high-level meetings this week on trade and security. She said the discussions aim to establish a “long-term plan of collaboration” between the two nations.

Last week, Sheinbaum first raised the possibility of legal action, calling Google’s labeling “an inaccurate designation.” If the tech company does not revise its maps, Mexico is prepared to proceed with a civil lawsuit, she said.

Gavin Rollman is a fourth-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email gmr5526@psu.edu.