Official Notice: Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by Public Tender in Mauritius
Introduction and Context
The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official notice regarding the upcoming sale of abandoned and unclaimed goods through a public tender process. This initiative is part of the MRA's ongoing efforts to manage and dispose of goods that have been left unclaimed after customs procedures, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the handling of such items. The sale will be conducted via the MRA’s dedicated Online Auction System, aligning with the government’s broader digital transformation strategy to facilitate accessible and secure online transactions.
Scope and Purpose of the Sale
This notice pertains specifically to the sale of general goods that have been classified as abandoned or unclaimed by their owners. The sale aims to recover customs duties and facilitate the clearance of goods that have remained in storage without claims over a specified period. The process is open to the general public, with the primary objective of maximizing transparency and providing fair access to interested bidders across Mauritius.
Key Details for Bidders and Participants
- Sale Period: The auction will be open from 8 November 2023, at 09:00 hrs, and will close on 15 November 2023, at 12:00 hrs.
- Registration: Prospective bidders who are not yet registered must complete their registration on the MRA’s Online Auction System. This process involves providing necessary identification details and creating an account to participate in bidding activities.
- Viewing of Goods: The goods will be displayed at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge. Viewing sessions are scheduled on weekdays from 8 to 10 November and 13 to 14 November, between 09:00 and 15:45. Additionally, there will be a viewing on Saturday, 11 November, from 09:30 to 12:00. No viewings are scheduled for Sunday, 12 November.
- Items for Sale: The goods consist of various general merchandise, which will be posted online for bidding starting Wednesday, 8 November 2023. Detailed descriptions and photographs of the items will be available on the auction platform.
Participation Conditions and Deposit Requirements
Participants interested in bidding on items requiring a deposit must submit a deposit amounting to at least 10% of their bid. This deposit must be paid via a Banker’s Cheque, drawn in favor of the Director-General of the Mauritius Revenue Authority. The cheque should be deposited in a designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding deadline. Personal cheques are not accepted.
All deposits must be accompanied by an envelope clearly indicating the bidder’s name and the specific items for which the deposit is made. This process ensures transparency and proper allocation of funds during the auction.
Additional Practical Information
- Access to the Warehouse: Visitors and bidders are required to bring their Identity Cards (ID) for access through the Port Main Gate. This security measure aligns with standard customs procedures to ensure authorized access.
- Online Bidding Platform: The auction will be conducted exclusively through the MRA’s Online Auction System, which is accessible via the government’s digital services portal. Bidders are encouraged to register early to familiarize themselves with the platform and avoid last-minute technical issues.
Legal and Administrative References
This auction process is governed by the relevant provisions of the Mauritius Revenue Authority Act and applicable customs regulations. The official notice and related procedures are designed to promote transparency, fairness, and compliance with national legal standards concerning the disposal of unclaimed goods.
Conclusion
Citizens interested in participating in this public tender are advised to review all details carefully, ensure timely registration and deposits, and attend viewing sessions as scheduled. The Mauritius Revenue Authority emphasizes the importance of adhering to the outlined procedures to facilitate a smooth and transparent auction process. For further information, contact details are provided by the MRA, including their official communication channels and online resources.
