A few hours ago, GSMA called an emergency meeting. In this meeting, the organizers of MWC confirms the news of MWC 2020 cancellation. Due to the fear of “coronavirus”, Mobile World Congress 2020 Barcelona is on hold. The panel agreed to continue Mobile World Congress as planned from February 24-27. However, it has just been officially confirmed that the conference is now cancelled.
GSMA CEO John Hoffman confirmed on their statement that the fear of coronavirus surrounding. Because of this, the event is going to be on hold. MWC is the biggest annual phone launch event that showcases many futuristic smartphones. It aims to attract over 100 thousand enthusiasts from the world.
John Hoffman: Official Statement of Mobile World Congress 2020
“With due regard to a safe and healthy environment in Barcelona and the host country today. The GSMA has cancelled MWC Barcelona 2020 because of the global concern regarding the coronavirus outbreak. Travel concern and other circumstances, make it impossible for the GSMA to hold the event. The Host City Parties respect and understand this decision. The GSMA and the Host City Parties will continue to be working in unison and supporting each other for MWC Barcelona 2021 and future editions. Our sympathies at this time are with those affected in China, and all around the world.”
GSMA Mobile World Congress 2020 organizers finally agree with their exhibitors who started withdrawing plan due to health concern and safety issue. Ericsson was the first one to confirm that it’s skipping Mobile World Congress 2020 Barcelona and including Realme, Oppo, Xiaomi & Huawei are leaving MWC 2020. Few companies were going further to attend the MWC anyway, while a major fraction of them had already decided to skip the event.
In an estimation Mobile World Congress, 2020 conference cancellation would cause a loss in millions of Euros. Not just for the organizers and the participating brands, but also the hotel, travel and hospitality industry.
