BERLIN, March 31 (Reuters) - German Chancellor Friedrich Merz issued a statement on Tuesday clarifying comments he made about the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland, after economists and politicians warned of the serious economic consequences of their mass exodus.

Mertz told a press conference with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on Monday that about 80 percent of Syrians living in Germany are expected to return to their homeland within the next three years.

Politicians from several parties accused Meretz of setting an unrealistic goal that undermines integration efforts. Economists also warned that an exodus of this magnitude could exacerbate labor shortages in certain sectors.

Mertz said in his statement today, "The Syrian president indicated that 80 percent would return within three years. We have taken note of this percentage, but we are aware of the magnitude of this task."

Germany hosts around one million Syrians, many of whom arrived during the 2015-2016 influx of refugees due to the war. A significant number have found employment in sectors including construction, logistics, and healthcare, even as political debate surrounding immigration intensifies and support for the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany party rises.