It’s official! ITB Berlin 2020 is cancelled.

In a post on the official Facebook page of ITB Berlin, organisers have announced that the event will not take place this year.

https://www.facebook.com/ITBBerlin/photos/a.109240389990/10151240052764991/?type=3&theater

Organisers explained that the unfortunate decision is due to the rapid spread of the new strain of coronavirus (COVID-19). The Federal Ministry of Health and the Federal Ministry of Economics have expressed their concerns about holding the event.

There are over 500 reported cases of coronavirus in Europe. While Italy registered a 25% surge in coronavirus cases in 24 hours, and the infections remain centred on outbreaks in two northern regions – Lombardy and Veneto.

There are less than 30 cases in Germany, but ITB Berlin is a huge event attended by thousands of travel trade professionals from all over the world. Officials fear that opening the borders to attendees may spike the cases in the country.

ITB Berlin is not the first event cancelled by coronavirus. Mobile World Congress, one of the biggest tech events held in Barcelona, was also cancelled due to health concerns.

The cancellation of huge events like ITB Berlin affects the confidence of organisers of future events while coronavirus has not passed.

Japan is on the lookout of the situation because of the upcoming Olympics and Paralympics. There are talks that the sporting events may be cancelled as well given that there are more reported cases in Japan.