The coronavirus outbreak has prompted the Chinese delegates to refrain from attending the Auto Expo 2020 going to be held this coming week in India. Although the Chinese companies have not pulled out of the show, it is expected that their local counterparts would be spearheading the proceedings at the week long exhibition.
The World Health Organization declared coronavirus as a public health emergency, as there had already been 82 cases in 18 countries with China recording 213 deaths as of Friday. According to a media report, none of the Chinese team members will be traveling to India for the Delhi Auto Expo.
Despite the slowdown in the Indian Automobile Sector last year, Chinese players form a major part of the Auto Expo 2020. With the Coronavirus outbreak, the Chinese delegates have canceled their flight tickets for India. No delegates from the British automotive brand, MG Motor will be attending the Expo due to the Chinese New Year. Other major Chinese firms including BYD, Haima, First Automobile Works, and Great Wall along with Chinese EV two-wheeler makers will also be making its foray into India this year. They already have their representatives in the country who will be attending the show to represent the companies.
A lot of precautionary measures are being taken including a full medical team and thermal screening at the Expo Mart in Greater Noida. The launch of these brands is expected to improve customer sentiments leading to an increase in sales. WIth Chinese delegates not attending the Expo, might have an effect but this is being compensated as quite a number of non-members have also aligned new launches.