Mobile World Congress In Spain’s Barcelona Cancelled Over Coronavirus Concerns

AFTER days seeing the top names in the mobile world industry pull out of MWC over coronavirus concerns, the worlds biggest phone show has ultimately been cancelled.

MWC was scheduled to take place in Barcelona between February 24th and the 27th but the coronavirus outbreak has made it “impossible” as indicated by John Hoffman GSMA CEO. The GSMA is an industry trade body that represents more than 1,200 companies across the mobile ecosystem.

“With due regard to the safe and healthy environment in Barcelona and the host country today, the GSMA has cancelled MWC Barcelona 2020 because 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.”

MWC is usually held annually in Barcelona, and it has a big economic impact of 492 million euros, generating 14,100 part-time jobs.