Press TV - Iran's gas rationing and rising global oil prices have contributed to the country's $30.3 billion trade surplus during 2007 to 2008, a report says.

The Economist magazine predicted on in its report on Iran's economic condition that Iran's oil revenues will continue to rise in the next few months and its imports will gradually begin an upward trend.

The report also said an increase in imported goods is the result of greater domestic investment and consumption expenditures. However, the negative impact of greater imports on the country's trade balance will be compensated by the positive increase in oil revenues during the 2008-2009 Iranian year (ending March 20).

The projected lower oil prices in 2009-2010 will contribute to a decreased trade surplus for Iran, it added.

Iran's trade surplus in 2007-2008 stood at $30.3 billion and is expected to reach $41 billion and $37 billion respectively over the next two years.

... Payvand News - 05/31/08 ... --