Ericsson, a Swedish multinational networking and telecommunications company, decided to skip Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2020 set on Feb. 24-27. The company cites its concern “for the health and safety of employees, customers, and other stakeholders.”

“Due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, Ericsson has taken the decision to withdraw from the industry event GSMA Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2020 as the health and safety of employees and customers cannot be ensured. After an extensive internal risk assessment, Ericsson has decided to take further precautionary measures by withdrawing from MWC Barcelona 2020, the largest event in the telecom industry,” the company said in a statement.

“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,”

– Börje Ekholm, president and CEO, Ericsson

“It is very unfortunate, but we strongly believe the most responsible business decision is to withdraw our participation from this year’s event,” Ekholm said.

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Following the outbreak and continued spreading of the novel coronavirus, Ericsson (has closely monitored the development and adhered to recommendations from relevant national authorities and international bodies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO. The company has already taken a number of precautionary measures to ensure the health and safety of employees and to minimize the impact on the company’s operations.

Ericsson is one of the largest exhibitors with thousands of visitors in its hall each day which means the risk is high and “the company cannot guarantee the health and safety of its employees and visitors.”

To showcase the company’s portfolio and innovations, Ericsson will take the demos and content created for MWC Barcelona to customers in their home markets with local events called “Ericsson Unboxed”.