I know other Asian countries such as Thailand and Indonesia manufacture their own motorcycles, albeit under license and with direct supervision of the Japanese factories. I even had a Japanese technician jet my (two-stroke) Ninja once; he was training the delership's staff. I was impressed by the close relationship. Just as Hondas and Kawis sell in Indonesia I'm sure Aprilias might sell in China, but it only makes sense to build them in China according to Aprilia spec.
That said, once they've done that they certainly could manufacture models for export. The article posted above indicates they are seeking EPA approval so they must be planning on exporting to the USA. It's unclear if they will be Aprilias or another, perhaps as-yet-unannounced brand.
It would make sense for them to manufacture for the Chinese market first-- which must be huge compared to the American scooter market anyway! If they can make good product that meets Aprilia's standards then they can manufacture them for export. But I don't know at all that that's their plan.
I would agree as well that Chinese quality, while greatly improved and still improving, is still not as high as I'd like it to be. I see it in my hand tools, nail clippers, and even the laptop I'm writing this on right now. But I also agree that they're coming. I really wonder what will happen. If their currency floats, that might end cheap Chinese goods for US and Euro customers; right now their currency is pegged artificially low against the dollar. On the other hand, if their currency strenthens, perhaps they will be so flush with buying power that they will just take over vulnerable companies, even huge ones.
