Italy's hidden and illegal market reaches €218.2 billion in 2024
Italy's non-observed economy was valued at €218.2 billion in 2024, a 0.3% rise from the previous year, according to Istat.
The national statistics institute reported that the combined size of Italy's underground and illegal activities totaled €218.2 billion in 2024, up 0.3% from 2023. The underground sector alone accounted for €198.4 billion, while illegal activities contributed €19.8 billion. Although the overall figure grew, its share of gross domestic product fell to 9.9% from 10.2% a year earlier.
Why it matters
The size of Italy's hidden economy affects tax revenue, public policy and the overall health of the legal market.
In this story
non-observed economyunderground economyillegal activitiesgross domestic producttax revenueItalyIstateconomic data
