Mauritius Revenue Authority Announces Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed

Official Notice: 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 notice provides essential information for interested bidders and outlines the procedures for participation, viewing, and bidding on items, particularly alcoholic products, stored at the Customs Warehouse in Port Louis.

Scope and Purpose of the Notice

This communication serves to inform the general public and potential bidders about the sale of goods that have been abandoned or left unclaimed within Mauritius customs premises. The sale is conducted via an online auction platform, enabling a transparent and accessible bidding process. The primary objective is to recover value from goods that have not been claimed by their rightful owners within the statutory period, in accordance with customs regulations and revenue collection policies.

Details of the Auction Process

Registration and Eligibility

Prospective bidders who are not yet registered on the MRA’s Online Auction System must complete the registration process prior to participating in the auction. Registration is mandatory and can be initiated through the designated online portal. Bidders are advised to ensure that their registration details are accurate and complete to facilitate smooth participation.

Items for Sale and Viewing Arrangements

The goods to be auctioned include various abandoned and unclaimed items, notably alcoholic beverages. These items will be listed on the online platform starting from Wednesday, 10 May 2023, at 09:00 hours, and will remain available for bidding until the closing date of Wednesday, 17 May 2023, at 12:00 hours.

Physical viewing of the goods will be available at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge. The viewing sessions are scheduled as follows:

• Wednesday 10 May 2023 to Friday 12 May 2023, from 09:00 to 15:45 hours
• Saturday 13 May 2023, from 09:30 to 12:00 hours
• Monday 15 May 2023 to Tuesday 16 May 2023, from 09:00 to 15:45 hours
• Wednesday 17 May 2023, from 09:00 to 12:00 hours

Bidding Procedure and Deposit Requirements

All bids must be submitted electronically through the online auction system. Bidders wishing to place bids on items requiring a deposit must provide a deposit amounting to at least 10% of their bid value. This deposit should be paid via a Banker’s Cheque made payable to the Director-General of the MRA and deposited in the designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding deadline.

It is important to note that personal cheques are not accepted for deposits. The Banker’s Cheque must be enclosed in an envelope clearly indicating the bidder’s name and the specific items for which the deposit is made. Bidders are encouraged to ensure their deposit is submitted in accordance with these instructions to avoid disqualification.

Access to Bidding Facilities

For individuals without internet access, the Customs Warehouse will provide three bidding booths equipped with computer terminals. These facilities are available during the viewing and bidding periods to facilitate participation by all interested parties.

Additional Access and Security Measures

Visitors wishing to access the Customs Warehouse and participate in the viewing or bidding process are required to carry valid identification, specifically their Identity Card (ID). Access to the Freeport Zone 1 will be regulated to ensure security and compliance with customs procedures.

Summary of Key Dates and Locations

This official notice underscores Mauritius Revenue Authority’s commitment to transparency and efficient management of unclaimed goods, providing clear instructions and opportunities for public participation. Interested bidders are encouraged to review the detailed procedures and ensure compliance with the outlined requirements to participate successfully in this auction.