AfD Threatens the Euro, and Poland Could Take the Hit

Germany’s possible withdrawal from the eurozone and Schengen area would not stop at its borders. Poland, whose economy is closely linked to its western neighbor, could face disruption in trade, transport and industrial supply chains.

The proposals came from Alice Weidel, leader of the anti-European Alternative for Germany. The party is polling at 43% ahead of elections in Saxony-Anhalt, according to the material. Germany receives about one-quarter of Polish exports. In the first five months of 2026, Polish exports to Germany totaled 41.8 billion euros, while imports reached 30.6 billion euros.

“

Poland would be among the countries most severely affected, especially if Germany left the Schengen area.

The effects would be particularly direct if Germany left Schengen, experts said. The return of border barriers at Poland’s most economically important frontier could increase transport costs and cause delays. Polish automotive, furniture and food producers would be exposed, while major logistics routes to Western markets pass through Germany.

“

In Poland, industry, furniture, automotive manufacturing and food production would suffer, and on a large scale. A solution or a new market would have to be found for 27% of Polish exports.

Germany itself would face the heavier monetary shock if it abandoned the euro. A new German currency could strengthen sharply against other currencies, making German goods more expensive abroad and weakening the country’s competitiveness. Klaus Wohlrabe of the ifo Institute said contracts, claims, obligations and financial investments would have to be transferred into a new monetary system, with consequences for banks and capital markets that would be difficult to predict.

Poland would be less directly exposed because it has its own currency and central bank, but experts said the shock could still spread through the zloty’s exchange rate, financing costs, trade and investment. The article’s central warning is that a decision aimed at reversing European integration could impose losses on both Germany and its closely connected neighbors.

“

Contracts, claims, obligations and financial investments would have to be transferred into a new monetary system. The consequences for banks, capital markets and investments would be difficult to predict.