Google and its Chinese search rival Baidu are exploring similar options in their quest to expand into online video in China.

According to Reuters, both companies have been holding preliminary talks with video sites concerning the possibility of cooperation or acquisition, but neither Google nor Baidu has secured a specific target.

Google is deciding whether to simply translate the existing YouTube into Chinese, or build a Chinese YouTube through acquisition or partnership.

Google reportedly had several problems understanding the Chinese market when the company first set up shop there. Part of the trouble is that the Chinese interact online in a different manner than Americans or Europeans do. For example: Where Americans prefer e-mail, the Chinese apparently prefer message boards.

Google has had problems gaining market share against Baidu. Google owns about 25 percent, whereas Baidu owns over 60 percent.