Official Notice: Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by Public

Official Notice on the Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by Public Tender

This document provides essential information from the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) regarding an upcoming sale of goods that have been abandoned or remain unclaimed. The sale will be conducted via an online public tender process, offering interested parties an opportunity to bid on items currently held in storage. This notice aims to guide potential bidders through the process, outline the scope of the sale, and clarify the procedures involved.

Scope and Purpose of the Sale

The sale concerns a specific category of goods, notably including Calcium Carbonate, which have been classified as abandoned or unclaimed by their owners. Such goods are stored at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge, and are made available to the public through a transparent bidding process. The primary objective is to facilitate the lawful disposal of these goods, recover storage costs, and provide an opportunity for enterprises involved in related sectors—particularly poultry farming and waste oil recycling—to acquire these materials at competitive prices.

Application and Registration for Bidders

Participation in the auction is open to all interested bidders, with the exception of those already registered on the Online Auction System. Prospective bidders who have not yet registered are required to complete the registration process online through the designated portal. This registration ensures proper identification and facilitates the bidding process.

To register, bidders must access the official online platform provided by the Mauritius Revenue Authority. Registration involves submitting relevant identification details, including the citizen’s identity card number, and creating a user account. This process is designed to streamline access and enhance security for all participants.

Details of the Auction Process

The auction will commence on Wednesday, 17 May 2023, at 09:00 hours, and will conclude on Wednesday, 24 May 2023, at 12:00 hours. Bidders can view the items for sale, including detailed descriptions and photographs, on the online auction portal starting from the opening date. The goods will be displayed physically at the Customs Warehouse, where interested parties can view them during specified viewing hours:

• Wednesday 17 May 2023 to Friday 19 May 2023, from 09:00 to 15:45
• Saturday 20 May 2023, from 09:30 to 12:00
• Monday 22 May 2023 to Tuesday 23 May 2023, from 09:00 to 15:45
• Wednesday 24 May 2023, from 09:00 to 12:00

Bidding is conducted electronically through the online system. For those without internet access, three bidding booths equipped with computer terminals are available at the Customs Warehouse to facilitate participation.

Deposit and Bidding Requirements

To submit a bid, participants must provide a deposit amounting to at least 10% of their proposed offer. This deposit is a guarantee of the bidder’s seriousness and commitment to the process. It must be paid via a Banker’s Cheque, drawn in favour of the Director-General of the Mauritius Revenue Authority. The cheque should be deposited in a designated tender box located at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding deadline.

Personal cheques are not accepted for deposits. Each cheque must be clearly marked with the bidder’s name and the specific items for which the deposit is made, enclosed in an envelope for identification purposes.

Access and Practical Information for Participants

Participants are advised to bring their national Identity Cards (ID cards) when visiting the Customs Warehouse, especially for access to the Freeport Zone 1. This measure ensures security and proper identification of all visitors during the viewing and bidding periods.

All relevant information, including terms and conditions of the sale, can be accessed through the official Mauritius Revenue Authority website or by contacting the Customs Department directly. The process emphasizes transparency, fairness, and equal opportunity for all eligible bidders.

Conclusion

This public tender offers a valuable opportunity for businesses and individuals interested in acquiring unclaimed goods, particularly within the sectors of agriculture and waste management. By adhering to the outlined procedures and deadlines, participants can engage in a fair bidding process facilitated through modern digital platforms, ensuring efficiency and transparency in the disposal of abandoned goods.