In 1957, Italy became a member in the European Economic Community. This
union of Western European nations, also called the European Common Market, has
abolished tariffs on trade among its members. This membership has helped
strengthen the economy of Italy.
Service industries account for about two-thirds of Italy's gross
domestic product. Trade ranks as Italy's most important type of service industry.
It accounts for a larger percentage of the country's gross domestic product and
employs a greater share of workers than any other service industry.