'Prime time' to invest in Europe

Still, looking at rising investing opportunities abroad, Chinese companies are deepening their international presence.

"Chinese investment in Europe has grown rapidly, but for China to become a successful and mature investor in the continent requires more time," said Ma She, deputy director-general of the department of European affairs at the Ministry of Commerce.

"The success of investments there depends not only on financial strength. It requires a combination of economic, social and cultural factors," Ma said.

Yang Ming, deputy general manager at Yingli Green Energy Holding Co Ltd's international sales branch, said he believes that intangible factors also play a role in gaining brand awareness and acceptance in developed markets.

Yingli's first success in Germany started with a soccer game. In 2006, a German company bought some photovoltaic components from Yingli for use in the World Cup stadium. But the container vessel carrying the shipment was hit by a typhoon.

After hearing of the situation, Yingli immediately offered to send another shipment at its own expense.

"Although the two sides ultimately split the air freight costs, Yingli's efforts impressed its German customer, which put up prominent display ads for Yingli inside the stadium," Yang said.