TEHRAN Although the United States has lifted the ban on the import of some Iranian goods like carpets and pistachios, it has imposed such a heavy tariff on these commodities that it is practically preventing the import of such goods through tariff barriers.

The above remark was made by the Iranian Commerce Minister Mohammad Shariatmadari at a press conference recently. He said that, however, Iran has been purchasing raw materials for its industries from the United States.

As regards Iran joining the World Trade Organization (WTO), the minister said that a high coordination council comprising the representatives of several ministries has been formed to study the issue. The agenda of the council will be fixed within the next two months, he added.

"The establishment of an effective tariff system and economic transparency are necessary factors for joining the WTO. Furthermore, ground should be prepared for the activities of private and foreign banks in this country," Shariatmadari further said.