ITB Asia 2021 will held virtually on October 25-29, with the physical show postponed to 2022.
Organiser Messe Berlin said in a statement: “After close observations of international developments of the Covid-19 pandemic and extensive conversations with local authorities and partners, the show organisers made the difficult decision to move the show completely virtual.
“The decision is made as Singapore moves to Phase 3 (heightened alert) where the current limit for MICE events is set at 250 attendees.
“In addition, the recent surge in Covid-19 infections in the Asia-Pacific region has dimmed the positive outlook for the aviation sector, undermining previous optimism among travellers as regional countries tighten border controls and travel restrictions to control the spread of the virus.
“Therefore, after careful consideration, Messe Berlin (Singapore) concludes to postpone the physical ITB Asia to 2022 and hold this year’s event virtually.”
Katrina Leung, managing director of Messe Berlin (Singapore), said the organising team had planned a “hybrid concept” for the event in October but she added: “The global health and travel uncertainties accompanied by the rapid emergence of new Covid-19 variants had halted our efforts.
“The hybrid concept garnered an excellent response with over 600 confirmed exhibitors, but it has become apparent that international delegates are unable to reasonably plan their participation and travel arrangements.
“Therefore, with a good lead time this year we will conduct the show virtually, offering international delegates a stronger digital platform for B2B networking, learning and knowledge sharing.”
It will be the second year in a row that ITB Asia will be virtual.