A shortage of skilled professionals could hamper the global mining industry over the coming years.

This is the view of a new report by Reuters, which suggests wages in the sector could rise by 20 per cent in Australia as a result of the talent gap.

According to the news source, the problem also exists in Africa, with shortages of metallurgists, geologists, engineers and other tradespeople to develop projects, particularly those who can speak French.

In addition, Credit Agricole analyst Robin Bhar explained that further steep wage increases could also take place in Latin America, while the article also warned the UK is facing an ageing sector with a lack of specialist expertise in areas such as explosives.

These problems attracting experienced professionals in the field could see some projects slow down as competition for talent intensifies.

In Australia, government plans to impose a 40 per cent tax on mining profits have come up against opposition from industry groups and investors.

Posted by Kate Griffin