Iranian companies look to new trade with US

Iranian companies barred for months from trading with the United States under President Carter's economic embargo have inquired about resuming trade with US companies, it was reported Tuesday. The Washington Post, quoting administration sources, said the first Iranian inquiries were received even before the 52 freed hostages arrived in the US.

The agreements to free the hostages included language lifting the trade ban. They are still are under review by the Reagan administration, however, and the Commerce Department has cautioned US companies against resuming trade until a formal announcement is made.

Meanwhile Exxon president, Howard Kuffman, has denied reports that the company was considering buying I ranian oil at this time.