Official Notice on the Payment of the Government Subsidy on Essential Goods (GSOG) to Eligible Traders in Mauritius
On 15 July 2021, the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) issued an official notice concerning the implementation of the Government Subsidy on Essential Goods (GSOG). This measure aims to support consumers by reducing the retail prices of specific essential products through direct subsidies to traders. The initiative follows the promulgation of the Consumer Protection (Maximum Price of Essential Goods) Regulations 2021, under Government Notice No. 158 of 2021, and is part of the government's broader strategy to ensure affordability and access to basic commodities during challenging economic conditions.
Scope and Objectives of the GSOG Scheme
The primary objective of this scheme is to provide financial support to traders involved in the importation, manufacturing, wholesale, distribution, and retail of designated essential goods. By subsidizing these products, the government aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers and stabilize market prices for essential commodities. The scheme specifically targets a predetermined list of products, with subsidies designed to reduce the retail price directly at the point of sale.
Eligible Products and Subsidy Rates
The subsidy applies to the following essential goods, with the corresponding reduction in retail prices:
| Product | Subsidy (Rs) | Unit of Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Canned Fish (Pilchard & Sardines) | 2 | Unit |
| Canned Tomatoes | 6 | Unit |
| Cheese (250g) | 5 | Piece |
| Edible Oil | 15 | 1 Litre |
| Margarine | 10 | 500g |
| Milk Powder | 15 | 1 kg |
| Pulses (various types) | 5 | 500g |
These subsidies will be applied at the retail level, effectively reducing the consumer's purchase price for these essential goods.
Implementation Timeline and Registration Process
The subsidy scheme officially commenced on 12 July 2021. To benefit from this initiative, eligible traders must register with the Mauritius Revenue Authority through its online portal, accessible via the official website. Registration facilities and detailed guidelines will be available starting from Monday, 19 July 2021.
Traders eligible for the subsidy include:
- Licensed importers, manufacturers, wholesalers, or distributors of the specified essential goods who sell directly to retailers;
- Importers or manufacturers holding a Retailer Licence and selling directly to the public;
- Licensed retailers possessing remaining stock of the specified essential goods as of 12 July 2021.
Requirements for Registration and Application
During registration, traders are required to provide details of their unsold stock of essential goods as of 12 July 2021, using the prescribed template and guidelines available on the online platform. The registration process is designed to verify eligibility and stock status.
Following registration, traders must submit their applications for subsidy payments online, starting from 1 August 2021. Retailers with remaining stock as of the scheme's start date are to apply once, covering their unsold inventory. Importers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors are required to submit monthly applications, including detailed purchase and sales data, within seven working days after each month’s end.
Payment and Verification Procedures
All subsidy payments will be directly credited into the traders’ bank accounts, ensuring a streamlined and transparent process. The online application platform will facilitate submission of all relevant documentation, including purchase and sales records, in accordance with the guidelines provided on the MRA website.
Additional Information and Support
Copies of the relevant legal notices, including GN 158 of 2021 and the official communiqué issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection, are accessible on the Mauritius Revenue Authority’s official website. For further assistance, traders and stakeholders are encouraged to contact the MRA Helpdesk at +230 207 6000 or the Customs Department at +230 202 0500 during working hours.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding consumer interests by ensuring affordability of essential goods and supporting traders during the ongoing economic challenges.
