IBTM Asia Pacific postponed due to COVID-19 concerns

i By February 20, 2020 No Comments

Reed Exhibitions is postponing the inaugural edition of IBTM Asia Pacific until 2021 due to concerns regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Slated to run April 6-8, 2020 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, it will now be held April 13-14, 2021 in the same location.

In a press release issued this morning, Reed explained that the decision to postpone was made on the advice of partners regarding COVID-19 and as a result of in-depth discussions with its customers and hosted buyers in the region and globally, whose welfare is the company’s first priority.

(Top of post) Singapore skyline. Photo © dengsongquan | Canva.

“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 prioritize the health and safety of everyone involved,” said Shane Hannam, portfolio director, IBTM Events. “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 recognize 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.”

“We send our warm regards to all our colleagues, partners and customers and sincerely wish everyone a swift return to normal life soon,” he said. “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.”

Dr. Edward Koh, executive director, Conventions, Meetings and Incentive Travel, Singapore Tourism Board (STB), said STB understood and supports Reed’s decision to postpone IBTM Asia Pacific. “We will work closely with Reed Travel Exhibitions and our partners to provide the assistance they need during this time,” he said. “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.”