Mauritius Public Tender for Abandoned Goods Sale

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. This announcement, identified as Quotation No. QUO202402 and dated 24 January 2024, provides essential information for interested bidders and the general public about the process, viewing arrangements, and bidding procedures. This notice aims to ensure transparency and facilitate participation in the sale of goods held at the Customs Warehouse in Mer Rouge, Port Louis.

Scope and Purpose of the Notice

This notice informs the public of the opportunity to acquire goods that have been abandoned or left unclaimed within the customs premises. Such goods, which include general merchandise, are periodically auctioned by the Mauritius Revenue Authority to recover costs and manage customs inventory. The sale is conducted via an online auction platform, reflecting the government's ongoing digital transformation efforts to streamline customs and revenue collection processes.

Who is Eligible to Participate?

The auction is open to all members of the public, provided they complete the necessary registration on the official Online Auction System. Existing registered bidders do not need to re-register, but new participants must follow the registration process accessible through the designated portal. Registration is mandatory to place bids and participate in the auction, ensuring proper identification and security measures are maintained throughout the process.

Key Dates and Viewing Arrangements

The auction will commence on Wednesday, 24 January 2024, at 09:00 hours, and conclude on Wednesday, 31 January 2024, at 12:00 hours. Bidders are encouraged to view the items beforehand to assess their condition and value. Goods will be displayed at the Customs Warehouse, Lux Shed, Mer Rouge, during specified viewing periods:

• Weekdays:
  • Wednesday 24 January to Friday 26 January 2024, and Monday 29 January to Tuesday 30 January 2024, from 09:00 hrs to 15:45 hrs
  • Wednesday 31 January 2024, from 09:00 hrs to 12:00 hrs
• Weekends:
  • Saturday 27 January 2024, from 09:30 hrs to 12:00 hrs
  • Sunday 28 January 2024 – No viewing

Potential bidders are advised to visit the viewing site during these hours to inspect the goods in person, as this can influence their bidding decisions.

Procedures for Bidding and Payment

Participants interested in bidding on items that require a deposit must provide a deposit equivalent to at least 10% of their bid amount. This deposit must be made via a Banker’s Cheque, drawn in favor of the Director-General of the MRA, and deposited into a designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse prior to the closing of bids. Personal cheques are not accepted for deposits.

Each Banker’s Cheque should be clearly labeled with the bidder’s name and the specific items for which the deposit is intended. Bidders are required to enclose the cheque in an envelope, ensuring proper identification and security. The deposit serves as a guarantee of serious intent and commitment to the bidding process.

Access and Identification Requirements

To facilitate access to the Customs Warehouse and viewing areas, visitors must carry their National Identity Card (ID Card). This requirement aligns with the government’s efforts to enhance security and verify the identity of all attendees at customs facilities. Access is granted through the main port gate, where security personnel will verify identification before allowing entry.

Additional Information and Contact Details

For further details about the auction, registration procedures, or viewing arrangements, interested parties can contact the Mauritius Revenue Authority at:

• Telephone: +230 202 0500
• Fax: +230 216 5946
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.mra.mu

This official notice underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in managing unclaimed goods, providing opportunities for the public to acquire valuable items through a regulated and secure process. Participants are encouraged to prepare thoroughly, adhere to the stipulated procedures, and attend during the specified viewing times to make informed bidding decisions.