Migrant workers remain vital to Italy's economy

Migrant workers continued to play a key role in Italy's economy and demographics in 2024, while the number of foreign entrepreneurs kept growing, according to a report released Monday.



The Report on Immigration Economy by the Venice-based Leone Moressa Foundation said foreign workers generated about 177 billion euros (206 billion U.S. dollars) in added value last year, equal to 9 percent of Italy's gross domestic product (GDP).



Of the country's 5.4 million foreign residents, 2.5 million were employed in 2024, making up 10.5 percent of the national workforce. Migrant labor continues to fill jobs in sectors facing local labor shortages, the report said.



Most migrants remain in low-skilled and precarious jobs, with limited prospects for advancement. "Better recognition of immigrant potential could further boost GDP, consumption and public revenue," it added.