California is the largest state economy in the US by terms of economic size, and the ninth-largest in the world.

It is a big agricultural state, while its iconic Silicon Valley is considered the largest concentration of top technology companies in not only the country, but globally.

"Chinese local governments are willing to develop investment cooperation with California in sectors including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, manufacturing, biological medicine and tourism," added Brown.

In 2012, California's exports to China were worth $14 billion, a 300 percent growth from 2000 and the highest of any US state.

Some US companies have been vociferous in their complaints about doing business in China, highlighting market access and intellectual property rights, in particular.

Related Readings

Chinese craving for organics is growing in California

Golden opportunities for California

California attracts cars of the future

China’s investment in California to reach $60b by 2020