Chinese companies rethink export strategy

"Solar energy has grown in importance as an investment opportunity throughout the Americas. As the world's largest PV modules manufacturer, we are pleased to contribute to and propel the expansion of this vital clean energy source in the region and around the world," said Liansheng Miao, chairman and chief executive officer of Yingli Green Energy.

Brands

Meanwhile, Chinese companies are also acquiring brands, which is the most efficient way to enhance the Made-in-China concept, said Rosen, adding that the country doesn't seem to have a system for learning, trying and failing.

Orlins added that buying brands, which is vertical integration, is just the first step needed to enhance Chinese products.

Chinese investors in the US are now buying brands in the auto parts, real estate and energy-efficiency sectors, compared with the exclusive investments seen in the energy sector three years ago, according to Orlins.

In the first seven months of the year, Chinese investment in the US jumped 278 percent year-on-year, much faster than China's overall outbound investment, which rose 20 percent year-on-year to $50.6 billion in the January-July period, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

China's domestic market is very important to the building of the Made-in China concept as safety concerns and quality scandals at home weaken the confidence of Western consumers, Rosen said.

"You should sell things to yourself first and then to the world," Rosen said. "A prosperous China means a better world."

Orlins added that China should first put an end to the safety concerns surrounding its exports. And then it can promote its image of quality, which is already displayed in the famous brands made in the country.