As the COVID-19 situation continues to worsen around the world, large-scale events like concerts and sports competitions are being postponed or cancelled to minimise the chances of spreading of the virus.

And naturally, the tech industry isn’t immune to this either — in to a statement on the GSMA website yesterday (12th February), the organisation announced that they have decided to cancel the 2020 edition of Mobile World Congress (MWC).

“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 GSMA to hold the event,” GSMA CEO John Hoffman said.

“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.”

Based on the statement, it seems that the event is completely cancelled, and will not be pushed back to a later date.

MWC — which was due to take place from the 24th to 27th of February this year — is one of the biggest tech events of the year, giving brands a platform to showcase their innovations and give consumers a preview their newest products.

Big names including LG, Amazon, and NVIDIA had already pulled out of the event earlier this month amidst growing concerns.

The event’s cancellation will no doubt throw a wrench in many a tech company’s plans, but with more than 50,000 active cases and the number continuing to rise every day, it’s probably for the best.

Header Image Credit: GSMA