China has become a global leader in terms of development in the emerging photovoltaic sector, said Gao Jifan, chairman of Trina Solar Co, a leading Chinese photovoltaics company.

Gao, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress, made the remarks during an interview ahead of the opening meeting of the second session of the 14th NPC on Tuesday.

"China's photovoltaic industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from the initial state where technology, market and equipment were all lagging behind globally, to today's situation with the world's largest market size, leading technology level and the most complete industrial chain."

Gao said he has also led the completion of the first international standard formulation for the Chinese photovoltaic industry.

The company has invested more than 23 billion yuan ($3.19 billion) in research and investment since 1997 and its business covers more than 170 countries and regions globally, he said.

As of today, Trina Solar's cumulative shipments of modules have exceeded 190 gigawatts, leading to carbon reduction equivalent to planting 14 billion trees worldwide, Gao said.