Official Notice: Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by Public Tender in Mauritius
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 notice, identified by the code CommuniqueQ202022 and categorized as a Notice/Circular, provides detailed information for interested bidders and the general public about the procedures, dates, and requirements associated with this auction.
Context and Purpose of the Notice
The primary aim of this communication is to inform the public about the sale of goods that have been abandoned or left unclaimed within the customs premises. Such sales are part of the MRA’s efforts to manage surplus or unclaimed items efficiently, recover revenue, and ensure transparency in its operations. This specific sale involves a selection of macaroni, which will be auctioned via the MRA’s online auction platform, reflecting the authority’s push towards digitalization and e-government services.
Scope and Public Eligibility
This notice is directed at potential bidders who wish to participate in the auction, whether they are registered or new entrants. Prospective bidders who have not previously registered on the MRA’s Online Auction System must do so before participating. Registration is accessible through the official website, www.mra.mu, via the dedicated e-Auction Sales link. The process is designed to facilitate a broad and inclusive participation, adhering to the transparency standards mandated by the authority.
Details of the Auction and Items for Sale
The auction, identified as Quotation No. QUO202022, will commence on Wednesday, 7 October 2020, at 09:00 hours, and will conclude on Wednesday, 14 October 2020, at 12:00 hours. The goods for sale will be listed on the online platform starting from the opening date. The items available are primarily macaroni, and detailed descriptions and images will be accessible on the MRA’s online auction portal during the bidding period.
Viewing Arrangements and Inspection of Goods
Interested bidders are encouraged to inspect the goods prior to bidding. The items will be displayed at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge. Inspection times are scheduled as follows:
- Wednesday 7 October to Friday 9 October 2020, from 09:00 to 15:45
- Saturday 10 October 2020, from 09:30 to 12:00
- Monday 12 October to Tuesday 13 October 2020, from 09:00 to 15:45
- Wednesday 14 October 2020, from 09:00 to 12:00
During these times, the public may visit the warehouse to view the items in person, which is an important step for bidders to assess the condition and quantity of the goods before submitting their bids.
Bidding Process and Financial Requirements
The auction process is conducted online, but physical bidding booths equipped with computer terminals will be made available at the Customs Warehouse for those lacking internet access. Bidders must submit their bids electronically through the online platform within the specified period.
For bids that require a deposit, the following conditions apply:
- A deposit of at least 10% of the bid amount must accompany each bid.
- The deposit should be paid via a banker’s cheque issued in favor of the Director-General, Mauritius Revenue Authority.
- The cheque must be deposited in a designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the closing time.
- Personal cheques are not accepted, and the cheque must be clearly labeled with the bidder’s name and the items for which the deposit is made.
Access and Identification Requirements
All visitors and bidders are requested to bring their Identity Cards (ID) for access through the main port gate. This security measure ensures proper identification and smooth entry into the customs premises during inspection and bid submission.
Legal and Administrative References
This notice is issued in accordance with the legal framework governing customs and revenue administration in Mauritius, notably under the Mauritius Revenue Authority Act and relevant customs regulations. The auction process aligns with the authority’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and digital service delivery, as emphasized in the ongoing modernization efforts of the government’s e-services portal.
Conclusion
The Mauritius Revenue Authority’s sale of abandoned and unclaimed goods via public tender offers an opportunity for interested parties to acquire surplus items in a transparent manner. Participants are advised to review all inspection and bidding procedures carefully, ensure their registration is completed in advance, and adhere to the stipulated timelines. The online auction platform provides a secure and accessible avenue for bidding, reflecting the authority’s dedication to efficient public service delivery in line with national digital initiatives.
