Apple on Tuesday removed several apps, including Microsoft's Skype phone call and messaging service, from its app store in China after the country's government pointed to violations of local laws.

"We have been notified by the Ministry of Public Security that a number of voice over internet protocol apps do not comply with local law, therefore these apps have been removed from the App Store in China," an Apple spokeswoman said.

Apple's move led to complaints from Chinese users who were unable to pay for Skype's services through Apple.

Alphabet Inc's Google services, Facebook and Twitter have also become inaccessible to Chinese users.