The Mexican government has notified Starbucks that Mexico is owed intellectual property rights for a line of coffee mugs showing pre-Hispanic images.

Starbucks said it is working with Mexico to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

The coffee chain said the mugs have been removed from its 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 it will decide by next week whether Starbucks should pay any fees.

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