The Mexico connection: Colorado companies support free-trade pact but deny manufacturing or job exodus is imminent. (includes related article on doing business in mexico) (Special Report: International Trade)

There probably isn't a business in Colorado that doesn't support President George Bush's free-trade proposal with Mexico, despite concerns about the environment and fears the pact will take jobs away from the United States.

Indeed, Colorado businesses already south of the border said approval of the pact could translate into expansion of their Mexico operations and expressed confidence that the environmental concerns will be resolved.

There are at least 20 Colorado companies with a presence there, including Gates Corp., Miller International Co., Manville Corp. and Norgren Corp.

Still, free trade with Mexico is not going to come about without some kind of sacrifice. "There is no such thing as a free lunch," said Tucker Hart Adams, chief economist for Central Banks of Colorado.

Adams, who supports the proposal, said the pact will, sooner or later, mean a loss of jobs here and nationwide.

Congress is expected to give President Bush approval for fast-track negotiating authority on a free-trade …