Italy continues to rank first in the European Union for drinking water withdrawal, even as overall consumption declines.

According to a new report released by Istat for the World Water Day, 8.87 billion cubic meters of water were extracted for potable use in 2024: the lowest level in the past 25 years and a 3% decrease compared to 2022.

Despite the drop, Italy remains the EU’s largest consumer of freshwater for drinking purposes, ahead of France and Germany. Per capita usage is also among the highest in Europe, at around 150 cubic meters per person annually, second only to Ireland.

At the same time, water supply issues are becoming more pronounced. In 2024, more than one million residents were affected by water rationing in major cities, a significant increase compared to the previous year. Southern regions, particularly Sicily, are the most affected.

In 2025, 2.7 million families reported irregularities in their water supply, while nearly one in three households expressed distrust in tap water. In Sicily and Sardinia, that figure rises above 50%.

The water sector also plays a key economic role. In 2023, it generated €15 billion in production value, accounting for 0.3% of Italy’s GDP.

Agriculture remains especially vulnerable: over 90% of farms report irrigation difficulties, with the highest levels in southern Italy and the islands. Smaller farms are the most affected, highlighting structural weaknesses in the sector.

The data paints a complex picture of a country rich in water resources, yet increasingly challenged by distribution inefficiencies, infrastructure issues, and climate pressures.