Skilled workers in short supply in Hong Kong's construction industry

Strong investment on the mainland and in Macau and a large amount of infrastructure work in Hong Kong have resulted in a growing shortage of suitably skilled labour and professional talent in Hong Kong's construction industry.

"Hong Kong property and construction talent relocating to China and Macau is an increasing trend, and this should continue," said Christopher Aukland, regional director of recruitment firm Michael Page in Hong Kong.

"The increased lack of talent within Hong Kong will mean the recruitment market becomes more competitive, which can eventually push up salary levels in this sector.

"We have recently seen the trend of China and Macau-based roles offering higher salaries in the property and construction sector than similar roles in Hong Kong.

"This is due to a lack of qualified talent in those locations. Therefore, employers need to offer incentives to attract candidates to work in those locations."

Another attraction, Aukland said, was that "often for Hong Kong professionals, working in China and Macau can provide the opportunity to work on more high-profile, large and iconic projects".