Introduction to the Registration of Suppliers on the Mauritius e-Procurement System
The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official notice emphasizing the mandatory registration process for suppliers wishing to participate in public procurement activities. This communication, identified under the reference code Communique011021, aims to inform and guide suppliers on the procedures and requirements for registering on the government’s e-procurement platform, effective from 1 October 2021.
Context and Scope of the Notice
The primary purpose of this notice is to ensure transparency, efficiency, and competitiveness in the public procurement process by leveraging digital technology. The Mauritius government has mandated the use of the e-Procurement System for all public sector bidding exercises conducted by the Mauritius Revenue Authority and other government entities. This initiative aligns with the broader national strategy to digitize administrative services and streamline procurement procedures.
Effective from the specified date, all suppliers intending to participate in procurement activities must register on the dedicated online platform, accessible via https://eproc.publicprocurement.govmu.org. This requirement applies to both local and international vendors seeking to engage with the public sector in Mauritius.
Who Is Concerned by This Registration?
This notice is directly relevant to all entities and individuals interested in supplying goods, services, or works to the Mauritian government. It encompasses a wide range of potential bidders, including:
- Manufacturers and distributors of goods
- Service providers across various sectors
- Construction firms and contractors
- Consultants and professional service providers
- Any other entities seeking to participate in public procurement tenders
It is important to note that registration on the e-Procurement System is a prerequisite for participating in any bidding process conducted by the Mauritius Revenue Authority or other public bodies utilizing this platform.
Key Points for Registration
The process for registering as a supplier on the e-Procurement System involves several essential steps and requirements:
- Online Registration: Suppliers must create an account through the portal, which is integrated with the Mauritian National ID Card system via a secure single sign-on (SSO) process.
- Documentation: Applicants are required to submit relevant company registration documents, tax clearance certificates, and other supporting credentials as specified on the portal.
- Verification: The system performs automatic verification of submitted documents and details against the Central Population Database and other official records.
- Registration Confirmation: Once approved, suppliers receive a confirmation email and are listed in the official supplier database accessible to all public procurement entities.
Suppliers are encouraged to ensure that all information provided is accurate and up-to-date to facilitate a smooth registration process.
Additional Information and Support
For any inquiries or assistance related to the registration process, suppliers are advised to contact the e-Procurement System Helpdesk via email at eprocdesk@govmu.org. The helpdesk team is available to provide guidance on technical issues, document submission, and other registration-related concerns.
The Mauritius Revenue Authority emphasizes that the registration process is designed to promote transparency and fairness in public procurement. By mandating electronic registration and bidding, the government aims to reduce administrative delays, minimize corruption risks, and foster a competitive environment for all potential suppliers.
Legal and Regulatory References
This initiative is supported by the legal framework governing public procurement in Mauritius, including the Public Procurement Act and relevant regulations. The use of the e-Procurement System is aligned with the government’s broader digital transformation strategy, as outlined in national policies to enhance e-government services and ensure compliance with international best practices.
Conclusion
Suppliers interested in engaging with the Mauritian public sector must adhere to the new registration requirements on the e-Procurement System. This mandatory step is crucial for participating in future bidding processes and ensuring their eligibility for government contracts. The Mauritius Revenue Authority encourages all potential bidders to complete their registration promptly and to utilize the available support channels for any assistance needed.
