Witnesses from the public and private sectors testified on possible implications of the U.S.-Canada-Mexico Free Trade Agreement. Those testifying included representatives from trade associations, civic groups and private companies. The hearing on the free trade agreement was one of a number of public hearings held by the Office of the Trade Representative being held around the country to gain information and public opinion on the proposed free trade agreement. The U.S.-Canada-Mexico Free Trade Agreement has been opposed by U.S. labor groups on the theory that the relaxation of tariffs on imported goods from Canada and Mexico will provide incentive for U.S. companies to invest in factories in Mexico utilizing cheaper Mexican labor, thus reducing the number of American jobs. Concerns have also been raised that U.S. companies will take advantage of lessened industry regulation in Mexico to evade fair wage and environmental regulations in the U.S.