For the first time since 2001, Italy has surpassed the United Kingdom in terms of GDP per capita - a notable shift that speaks volumes. According to recent data, Italy’s GDP per person has edged slightly ahead of the UK’s, bringing an unexpected economic twist after more than two decades of British dominance.

In 2024, Italy’s GDP per capita reached approximately USD 60,847 (around GBP 44,835), while the UK's stood at USD 60,620 - putting Italy just ahead by a small margin. This reversal has drawn attention across the Channel, even prompting British commentators to warn that the data might be a wake-up call for Prime Minister Starmer’s administration..