By Jonathan Easton

The GSMA and Ministry of the Interior of the Government of Spain have given the go ahead for Mobile World Congress (MWC) to go ahead this year with exhibitors, attendees, sponsors, and partners allowed to enter the country.

There is currently a restriction on entry to Spain for any national from outside the EU as a result of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, save for ‘highly qualified workers’. The Spanish government has confirmed that registrants to the Barcelona event will now fall into this category.

The process of getting to Barcelona will still be difficult for attendees, including the production of a negative Covid-19 test and other precautions but it will mark the first major trade show since the start of the pandemic in early 2020.

While the event will go ahead in person, the organisers said that MWC will be a hybrid event with a virtual experience to complement onsite activities.

Further registration details will be revealed in the coming weeks.

CEO of the GSMA John Hoffman said: “The health and safety of everyone involved in MWC Barcelona, both in Spain and beyond, continues to be our utmost priority as we navigate rapidly shifting circumstances. This decision is a resounding vote of confidence in the careful planning undertaken to date, and our strong partnership with the Host City Parties. We will continue to work closely with our partners to deliver a safe and enjoyable experience.”