{
  "id": 2820803,
  "title": "Handelspolitik: Der Kanzler im doppelten China-Dilemma: Wie die deutsche Blockade Europa lähmt",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/23/handelspolitik-der-kanzler-im-doppelten-china-dilemma-wie-die",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-08-23T15:43:48.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Handelsblatt",
    "slug": "handelsblatt",
    "url": "https://www.handelsblatt.com/politik/deutschland/merz-china-dilemma-wie-die-deutsche-blockade-in-der-china-politik-europa-laehmt/100248362.html"
  },
  "original_language": "de",
  "account": "Berlin – Exactly one and a half weeks ago, a document arrived in both Berlin and Brussels, originating from Beijing. In its pages, the Chinese describe their perspective on the ongoing trade conflict with Europe. However, this document appears to be more of a justification rather than a compromise offer, according to insiders. China once again denies engaging in unfair trade practices. As concern mounts over a diplomatic resolution to the conflict, time is running out. In October, the EU Commission plans to adopt stringent measures against China if no agreement is reached. These measures range from sector-specific tariffs to quotas, determining the extent to which European companies can still purchase within China. More and more EU states are advocating for a tough response to the import surge and the ensuing “China Shock 2.0” for European industry. Yet, one crucial member is absent: Germany. Since months, the German federal government has been grappling with a new approach to China policy. Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) has sharpened his rhetoric, acknowledging the dangers posed by China's aggressive trade practices. But what follows from this pivotal point remains divided in Berlin. The Social Democratic Party (SPD) calls for a tough response, while Federal Economic Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) warns of the consequences, with Chancellor Merz caught in the middle.",
  "summary": "Härteres Vorgehen gegen China? Die Bundesregierung wird sich nicht einig. Die SPD geht voran, eine CDU-Ministerin bremst. Und der Kanzler steht vor einer kaum lösbaren Aufgabe.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}