Ericsson, one of the largest exhibitors at the Mobile World Congress 2020 that is set to kick-off later this month, has pulled out from the event. The company is citing coronavirus outbreak as the reason for this decision.
This is a major blow to the MWC 2020, which is touted as the world’s largest event for the telecom industry. The development comes just days after LG and ZTE had announced that will not take part in this year’s Mobile World Congress.
Making this announcement, Ericsson said that the company took this decision as a precautionary measure after an extensive internal risk assessment. It also added that following the outbreak and continued spreading of the novel corona virus, the company closely monitored the development and adhered to recommendations from relevant national authorities and international bodies.
Ericsson said that it will now showcase the company’s portfolio and innovations planned for MWC Barcelona with local events called “Ericsson Unboxed”.
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GSM Association, which organises MWC, said in a statement that it respects Ericsson’s decision and is encouraged that the company committed to the 2021 show. It also reemphasised that the show will go on as planned.
Further, the association said that it is continuing to monitor and assess the virus situation to make appropriate changes. The group previously said it would increase medical support and disinfection measures on site and communicate best practices to attendees.
The Mobile World Congress, which is scheduled from February 24 to 27, attracts more than 100,000 visitors. It has come under increased scrutiny since the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus epidemic a public health emergency of international concern.
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