(Yicai Global) Jan. 24 -- China's solar industry continued its strong momentum last year with production of photovoltaic cells growing to 68 gigawatts, a 33.3 percent increase compared to 2016, says new data published by China's industry ministry.

The rapid adoption of solar power in overseas emerging markets has been a catalyst for export growth in the sector, while enhanced infrastructure and industry chains have further contributed to the rise in output.

China's polycrystalline silicon output reached 242,000 tons, an expansion of 24.7 percent annually, while silicon chip output grew to 87 gigawatts, up 34.3 percent annually. Production of battery packs was 76 gigawatts, rising 31.7 percent.

China's PV exports totaled USD13.11 billion in the first 11 months of last year, an increase of 1.4 percent. The modest rise was due to a significant decline in product prices. Export volumes rose rapidly last year, with India the biggest importer of Chinese PV products, followed by Mexico and Brazil.

The solar sector in China still faces many problems including overcapacity, homogenous product structure, weak innovation, regional supply and demand imbalances and international trade friction.

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology plans to promote the application of information technology in the PV field, strengthen industry supervision and encourage enterprises to continuous expand overseas businesses.