Moroccan wine industry 'set to expand'

Morocco's small but historic wine-making industry could be set for a major expansion, something that may see it becoming a centre for wine tourism.

The country has been making the alcoholic drink since Phoenecian times and was prized by the Romans, the BBC reports.

Because of this, the broadcaster notes, alcohol is not banned in the mainly Islamic country and member of the Moroccan wine-growers association Mehdi Bouchaara said negotiations are continuing with China about exporting there.

Such a rise in demand and production could lead to the development of wine tourism and wine-based properties in the country, with the BBC suggesting the export levels may even top those seen when the nation was a French protectorate.

The State of Monaco has recently set about creating its own Monte Carlo-style resort outside Marrakech.

It is seeking to attract the rich and famous to buy homes in a private residential development there, with one of those targeted being Formula One world champion Jenson Button.