LG has announced it will not attend this year’s Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona due to concerns about the coronavirus outbreak.
MWC is the largest event in the telecoms calendar and typically draws huge international crowds, creating close contact between attendees from around the world. Many visitors jokingly refer to “the MWC lurgy” because it’s common to pick up some illness while at the show. Given the potentially serious health risks posed by the novel coronavirus, several companies are taking extra precautions to protect employees and customers.
LG has historically been a major exhibitor at MWC, hosting a press conference, operating a large booth, and sending hundreds of staff. With travel restrictions rising and the virus spreading across borders, LG determined the safest course was to withdraw from the event. In a statement, LG explained the decision was made “with the safety of its employees, partners and customers foremost in mind,” and that cancelling removes the risk of exposing staff to international travel.
Other vendors have reacted in different ways. Initial reports said ZTE cancelled its press conference to avoid making attendees uncomfortable, though the company later issued a statement saying it would proceed as planned. Xiaomi and Huawei, among others, were evaluating their own participation in light of the evolving situation.
Organisers GSMA have been monitoring the outbreak closely and announced enhanced on-site measures to reduce the potential for viral spread. Key measures include:
- Increased cleaning and disinfection across high-traffic areas.
- Additional attention to frequently touched surfaces such as touchscreens, handrails and catering zones.
- Expanded onsite medical support.
- A “mic change” protocol between speakers to reduce shared microphone use.
- Guidance recommending a “no handshake” policy.
While the novel coronavirus appears to have a lower fatality rate than illnesses such as SARS, MERS, avian influenza or Ebola, it can still cause severe respiratory illness and pneumonia. At the time of this report, official tallies listed 24,639 confirmed infections globally, with 3,223 people in critical condition and 493 deaths. Those most vulnerable include the elderly, the very young, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Everyone has a role to play in limiting transmission, both to protect themselves and to reduce risk for others.
Some telecoms companies planned to continue attending MWC, but many participants said they would adopt extra precautions such as avoiding handshakes and using hand sanitizer frequently.
Update (07/02): Ericsson confirmed it would also withdraw from this year’s MWC. Börje Ekholm, Ericsson’s President and CEO, said: “The health and safety of our employees, customers and other stakeholders are our highest priority. This is not a decision we have taken lightly. We were looking forward to showcasing our latest innovations at MWC in Barcelona. It is very unfortunate, but we strongly believe the most responsible business decision is to withdraw our participation from this year’s event.”
Note: Industry events and conferences may continue to adapt as public health guidance evolves. Attendees and exhibitors should follow official recommendations from health authorities and event organisers, and take sensible precautions to protect themselves and others.