Although estimates vary, some estimate that the underground economy is between 11% and 12% of the US gross domestic product (GDP), or about $2.25 trillion to $2.5 trillion.
The elements of the underground economy vary from country to country, from state to state, and in some cases from municipality to municipality.
Alternative names for the shadow economy include the shadow economy, the black market, and the informal economy.
Trafficking in illegal drugs, trafficking in human beings, endangered species, human organs, antiquities and stolen goods are examples of activities in the shadow economy.