The growth of the Chinese cruise market is under threat as political tensions cause operators to cut South Korea out of their China-based itineraries.

MSC Cruises has joined the list of China cruise players, including Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, that have reduced the number of trips from China to Korea.

Industry sources say the move is in line with Beijing’s retaliatory steps against Seoul’s planned instalment of the US’ Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system.

Japanese