The GSM Association (GSMA), which organizes the world’s biggest phone show, Mobile World Congress show (MWC), has now cancelled it after coronavirus threatened to throw MWC into chaos.

It comes after more than a week of exhibitors and companies pulling out of MWC.

In a statement, GSMA CEO John Hoffman said the coronavirus outbreak has made it “impossible” to hold the event. MWC was scheduled to take place in Barcelona between February 24 and the 27.

“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,” an MWC statement said.

“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.” – TradeArabia News Service