Mauritius Public Tender for Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods

Official Notice: Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by Public Tender in Mauritius

The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official notice concerning the upcoming sale of abandoned and unclaimed goods through a public tender process. This communication aims to inform the public and interested bidders about the procedures, registration requirements, viewing arrangements, and bidding conditions related to this auction. It is essential for potential participants to understand the key details outlined in this notice to ensure compliance and successful participation.

Context and Scope of the Sale

The sale involves general goods that have been classified as abandoned or unclaimed within the jurisdiction of the Mauritius Revenue Authority. Such goods typically result from customs procedures where goods are not claimed by their owners within stipulated periods. The process is conducted via an online auction platform, reflecting the government's initiative to modernize and digitize public procurement and asset disposal activities. The auction is scheduled to run from 3rd November 2022 to 9th November 2022, providing a one-week window for bidding.

Who Is Eligible to Participate?

All members of the public interested in acquiring these goods are eligible to participate, provided they complete the registration process on the Mauritius Revenue Authority’s Online Auction System. Existing registered bidders do not need to re-register but should ensure their accounts are active. Prospective bidders who are new to the system must register through the designated online portal, which can be accessed via the official MRA website. Registration involves providing personal identification details and agreeing to the terms and conditions of the auction.

Details of the Goods and Viewing Arrangements

The goods for sale comprise various general items that have been unclaimed or abandoned at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge. Interested bidders are encouraged to view the items before placing bids. Viewing sessions are scheduled as follows:

• Thursday 3rd November 2022 to Friday 4th November 2022, from 09:00 to 15:45
• Saturday 5th November 2022, from 09:30 to 12:00
• Monday 7th November 2022 to Tuesday 8th November 2022, from 09:00 to 15:45
• Wednesday 9th November 2022, from 09:00 to 12:00

Potential bidders are advised to visit the warehouse during these times to inspect the goods firsthand, which can aid in making informed bids. The inspection is free of charge and open to all registered and unregistered visitors, although identification is required for access.

Procedures for Bidding and Deposits

Bidding on the items will commence on Thursday, 3rd November 2022, at 09:00 hours and will conclude on Wednesday, 9th November 2022, at 12:00 hours. Bidders must place their bids electronically through the Online Auction System. For those unfamiliar with online bidding or lacking internet access, three dedicated bidding booths equipped with computers are available at the Customs Warehouse at Mer Rouge.

To participate in bidding on items that require a deposit, bidders must submit a deposit amounting to at least 10% of their tender offer. This deposit must be paid via a banker’s cheque drawn in favor of the Director-General of the MRA. The cheque should be deposited in a designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding closes. Personal cheques are not accepted, and the envelope containing the cheque must clearly state the bidder’s name and the specific items for which the deposit is intended.

Additional Access and Security Measures

Visitors and bidders are required to carry valid Identity Cards (ID) to gain access to the Customs Warehouse and the Freeport Zone 1. This measure ensures security and proper identification of all participants involved in the auction process. The notice emphasizes the importance of adhering to these access requirements for a smooth and transparent sale.

References and Contact Details

This notice is issued by the Mauritius Revenue Authority, with contact details provided for further inquiries or clarifications:

• Address: Custom House, Mer Rouge, Port Louis, Mauritius
• Telephone: +230 202 0500
• Fax: +230 216 5946
• Email: [email protected]
• Official Website: www.mra.mu

Participants are encouraged to consult the official MRA website for updates on the auction process and to access the online registration portal. The government’s ongoing efforts to promote e-services aim to facilitate transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in public asset management activities.