Next month’s Intertraffic Amsterdam show is going ahead, insists the organiser, RAI, despite the cancellation of other major international events over fears about coronavirus.
“We are closely following developments related to the coronavirus,” said RAI exhibition manager Joyce de Winter.
Around 35,000 global traffic and mobility professionals from more than 140 countries are expected to attend the 2020 edition from April 21-24. The exhibition will feature close to 900 exhibitors spread across 13 exhibit halls. There will also be a free-to-attend 120-session educational component called the Intertraffic Summit & Demonstration Programme.
Several international shows have already been cancelled or postponed following health scares about the virus, also called COVID-19. One of the latest cancellations is the public transport exhibition IT-Trans that was due to be held this week in Germany.
De Winter acknowledged concerns but insisted that RAI is in contact with the World Health Organisation (WHO) to monitor and act on new developments. “We assure everyone that the safety of everyone in attendance is paramount. Our shows are supportive of the markets and communities we serve, and resilient in challenging times,” she said.
“When it comes to health, we will rely on the experts in the field – from the WHO to specialised institutions and partners in the Netherlands. These include the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), the municipal health service (GGD), Amsterdam council, Schiphol airport and KLM. We will follow their advice on precautions.”
RAI has put together its own hygiene measures.
RIVM’s advice can be accessed here.
