Official Notice on Sale of Abandoned Goods in Mauritius

Official Notice on the 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 initiative aims to facilitate the disposal of goods that have been left unclaimed at customs warehouses, providing an opportunity for interested buyers to acquire these items via an online auction platform. This notice is particularly relevant for individuals and businesses seeking to purchase general goods that have been abandoned or unclaimed, as well as for those involved in secondary markets or logistics services.

Scope and Purpose of the Notice

The primary objective of this communication is to inform the public about the details of the upcoming sale organized by the Mauritius Revenue Authority. It specifies the procedures for participation, the types of goods available, viewing arrangements, and bidding requirements. This notice ensures transparency and accessibility, encouraging wider participation in the auction process while clarifying the legal and procedural framework governing the sale of goods that have been abandoned or unclaimed at customs facilities.

Details of the Public Tender Process

Sale Period and Auction Platform

The sale will be conducted via the MRA’s Online Auction System, accessible from 24 May 2023 to 31 May 2023. The auction is open to both registered and new bidders, with registration required for those who have not previously participated. Bidders must complete the registration process through the dedicated portal to gain access to the bidding platform.

Items Available for Purchase

The goods listed for sale consist mainly of general items, which have been classified as abandoned or unclaimed. These items will be displayed on the online platform starting from 24 May 2023 at 09:00 hours, with bidding closing on 31 May 2023 at 12:00 hours. The auction provides an opportunity for interested parties to bid on these goods remotely, with all relevant details and images posted on the system.

Viewing Arrangements and Physical Inspection

Potential buyers are encouraged to view the items in person at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge. Viewing sessions are scheduled on specific dates and times, allowing prospective bidders to inspect the goods before placing their bids. The viewing schedule is as follows:

• 24 May 2023 to 26 May 2023, from 09:00 hrs to 15:45 hrs
• 27 May 2023, from 09:30 hrs to 12:00 hrs
• 29 May 2023 to 30 May 2023, from 09:00 hrs to 15:45 hrs
• 31 May 2023, from 09:00 hrs to 12:00 hrs

Bidding Procedures and Deposit Requirements

Participants must submit their bids electronically through the online portal. For bids that involve a deposit, bidders are required to deposit a sum equivalent to at least 10% of their bid amount. The deposit should be paid via Banker’s Cheque, drawn in favor of the Director-General of the MRA, and deposited in a designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding deadline. Personal cheques are not accepted. Bidders are advised to clearly indicate their name and the items for which the deposit is intended on the envelope containing the cheque.

Facilities for Non-Internet Bidders

To ensure inclusivity, the MRA has provided three bidding booths equipped with computers at the Customs Warehouse. These booths enable individuals without internet access to participate in the auction by submitting their bids on-site.

Access and Identification Requirements

All visitors attending the viewing sessions or participating in the auction must carry their Identity Cards (ID) for access through the port’s main gate. This requirement ensures security and proper identification of all participants involved in the process.

Summary and Implications for Participants

This official notice underscores the Mauritian government’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in managing abandoned goods. For potential bidders, it provides comprehensive guidance on registration, viewing, bidding, and deposit procedures. Participants should ensure they adhere to the specified schedules and requirements to successfully acquire goods through this public tender.

For further information, interested parties can contact the Mauritius Revenue Authority at +230 202 0500 or via email at [email protected]. Details and updates are also available on the official MRA website.