The majority of managers at German companies are concerned about the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, especially with regard to the possible consequences for Europe, according to a survey published on Tuesday.
According to a representative survey by the Institute of German Business (IW), 77% of companies see a risk to the existence of the European Union and the euro, while 75% see a risk to a constructive political culture.
In each case, just under 20% are unable to make a precise statement or do not wish to do so.
The AfD has risen in the polls significantly in the past year. In eastern German states such as Saxony and Thuringia - where state elections are due to be held in September - it is polling at 30% or more.
Nationally, the AfD had been polling at around 20%, amid dissatisfaction with Chancellor Olaf Scholz's three-party coalition, but support has dropped to between 16% and 18% after a series of scandals - including allegations it plans to repatriate migrants.
The IW asked more than 900 companies in Germany about the rise of the AfD and its impact on various topics. According to the survey, 73% fear negative consequences for the formation of effective governments at state and federal level as well as for securing skilled labour.
There is slightly less concern with regard to their own company, with 63% seeing a risk to the cohesion of their own workforce.
Larger companies and companies from the service sector are generally more critical of the AfD, the IW researchers report.