The organisers of IBTM Asia Pacific 2020 have cancelled the inaugural event which was due to take place on 6-8 April 2020 at Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Singapore, until 13-14 April 2021.
Reed Travel Exhibitions took the decision on the advice of partners regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) and in consultation with customers and hosted buyers, citing that the welfare of delegates was a number one priority.
“We understand and support IBTM Asia Pacific’s decision to reschedule their show to 2021, and we will work closely with Reed Travel Exhibitions and our partners to provide the assistance they need during this time. IBTM is a valued partner, and their Asia Pacific show remains a key highlight in Singapore’s event calendar. We look forward to extending a warm welcome to all attendees and exhibitors in 2021,” Dr Edward Koh, executive director, conventions, meetings and incentive travel, Singapore Tourism Board, said.
“This is not a decision we have taken lightly; our customers, partners and team in Singapore have worked incredibly hard on the event and while it is disappointing to postpone, it’s imperative that we prioritise the health and safety of everyone involved. We are extremely grateful for the understanding of our customers, partners and team, and for the strong support we have had since announcing this new addition to our portfolio. We also recognise that business has to continue. With this in mind, over the coming weeks, we will be creating ways of keeping our community connected to support and collaborate and to keep our world moving during this difficult period,” Shane Hannam, portfolio director, IBTM Events, said.
“We send our warm regards to all our colleagues, partners and customers and sincerely wish everyone a swift return to normal life soon. We are committed to Singapore as a host city and look forward to returning to the region very soon to meet with as many customers and partners as possible.”
With over 2,000 deaths reported so far from the coronavirus outbreak the meetings industry has been severely affected. The Mobile World Congress (MWC), the world’s biggest smartphone conference, was cancelled after many exhibitors pulled out, with Barcelona’s hospitality sector standing to lose millions.
