GSMA says no refunds to exhibitors after MWC cancellation

The GSM Association (GSMA) said that the cancellation of MWC 2020 was due to "force majeure" and it will not provide refunds to exhibitors.

MWC is the largest exhibition in the global telecommunications industry which was originally planned to be held in Barcelona, Spain, from February 24 to 27, 2020. However, affected by public health events, GSMA announced on February 13 that it would cancel the 2020 MWC conference.

As for the exhibition fee, GSMA subsequently stated in an email to the exhibitors that the current situation is unprecedented, and it cannot be insured. Therefore, it is unavoidable to spend some time assessing the full impact and agreeing on a solution.

"This is our primary focus at this time- we anticipate being able to get back to you at the latest by 31st March 2020," it said.

Now according to Mobile Marketing GSMA has given the answer, saying that it now finds itself is unprecedented and uninsurable situation and that means that no refunds will be given to exhibitors.

GSMA wrote in an email to the exhibitor: " Given this is a force majeure situation, no refunds will be provided under clause 21.10 of our Standard Terms and Conditions for Exhibition, Advertising and Sponsorship. "

Here is the full statement:

The situation in which the GSMA now finds itself is unprecedented and uninsurable…As a not for profit organisation and the convener of an entire industry and related ecosystem, the financial implications of these circumstances are hugely significant for the GSMA and we are grateful for your understanding and patience.

Given this is a force majeure situation, no refunds will be provided under clause 21.10 of our Standard Terms and Conditions for Exhibition, Advertising and Sponsorship.

However, please bear with us as we work through these circumstances and formulate a proposal which we hope enables us to maintain our long-term and mutually beneficial partnership.

This is our primary focus at this time – we anticipate being able to get back to you by 31st March 2020 at the latest.