Official Notice on the Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by Public Tender in Mauritius
The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official communication regarding the sale of goods that have been abandoned or remain unclaimed. This notice, identified as Communique53of2019 and titled Quotation 53 of 2019, serves to inform the public about the upcoming auction process, the procedures involved, and the specific conditions for participation. It is essential for individuals and entities interested in bidding on these goods to understand the scope, registration requirements, viewing arrangements, and bidding protocols outlined in this official notice.
Context and Scope of the Sale
The sale concerns a selection of goods, primarily alcoholic products, which have been classified as abandoned or unclaimed. Such goods typically result from customs procedures where the rightful owners have not claimed their items within the statutory period. The MRA, as the custodian of customs and tax-related matters, manages the disposal of these goods through a transparent public tender process. This initiative aligns with the legal framework governing customs administration and revenue collection, ensuring that unclaimed goods are disposed of in accordance with established regulations.
Who Is Eligible and How to Participate
Prospective bidders interested in acquiring these goods must register on the MRA’s Online Auction System. Registration is mandatory for those who are not already registered. The registration process involves accessing the e-Auction Sales link available on the official MRA website (www.mra.mu). Bidders are required to provide accurate identification details to facilitate their registration and participation.
For bidders who do not have internet access, the MRA provides facilities at the Customs Warehouse in Mer Rouge, where three bidding booths equipped with computers are available. All participants must bring their valid Identity Cards (ID) for verification purposes when accessing the auction site or viewing the goods.
Details of the Auction and Viewing Arrangements
The auction is scheduled to run from 31 October to 6 November 2019. The list of items for sale, which includes alcoholic products, will be published on the online platform starting Thursday, 31 October 2019, at 09h00. Bidding will conclude on Wednesday, 6 November 2019, at 12h00.
Potential bidders are encouraged to view the goods beforehand. The items will be displayed at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge. Viewing times are as follows:
- Thursday, 31 October 2019, from 09h00 to 15h45
- Friday, 1 and Saturday, 2 November 2019 — NO VIEWING (Public Holidays)
- Monday, 4 and Tuesday, 5 November 2019, from 09h00 to 15h45
- Wednesday, 6 November 2019, from 09h00 to 12h00
Bid Submission and Deposit Requirements
All bids must be accompanied by a deposit of at least 10% of the offered price for each item. The deposit should be made via banker’s cheque, payable to the Director-General, Mauritius Revenue Authority. The cheque must be deposited in a designated tender box located at the Customs Warehouse before the closing time of the auction. Bidders must enclose their cheque in an envelope clearly indicating their name and the items for which the deposit is intended.
Personal cheques are not accepted. This deposit acts as a security measure and confirms the bidder’s commitment to the auction process. Successful bidders will be required to settle the remaining balance in accordance with the terms specified in the auction conditions.
Additional Information and Contact Details
Participants and interested parties are advised to bring their Identity Cards when attending the auction or viewing the goods for verification purposes. The MRA emphasizes transparency and fairness in the process, encouraging all potential bidders to adhere to the stipulated procedures.
For further inquiries or assistance, individuals can contact the Mauritius Revenue Authority at:
- Telephone: +230 202 0500
- Fax: +230 216 5946
- Email: customs@mra.mu
This notice exemplifies the government’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency and efficiency in the disposal of unclaimed goods, ensuring that such assets are managed in accordance with legal and administrative standards.
