Mauritius Official Notice: Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods via

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 initiative aims to facilitate the disposal of goods that have been left unclaimed in customs warehouses, providing an opportunity for interested buyers to acquire items at competitive prices via the authority’s online auction platform.

Scope and Purpose of the Sale

This public tender encompasses a range of general goods that have been classified as abandoned or unclaimed after efforts to contact their owners proved unsuccessful. The sale serves multiple objectives: to clear customs storage facilities, recover revenue, and offer the public a chance to purchase goods at potentially lower prices. The sale is conducted exclusively through the MRA’s online auction system, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all prospective bidders.

Key Details of the Tender Process

The auction will commence on Wednesday, 14 February 2024, at 09:00 hours and will conclude on Wednesday, 21 February 2024, at 12:00 hours. During this period, registered bidders can place their bids electronically via the official online auction portal. Bidders who are not yet registered must complete the registration process on the platform prior to participating in the auction.

Registration Procedure

Prospective bidders are required to register on the Online Auction System to participate in the tender. Registration involves providing personal details and agreeing to the terms and conditions outlined on the portal. This process ensures that all bids are traceable and that the auction maintains integrity and fairness.

Viewing and Inspection of Goods

Interested parties are invited to view the items at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge. Viewing sessions are scheduled on specific dates and times, allowing potential bidders to inspect the goods physically before placing offers. The viewing schedule is as follows:

• Wednesday 14 February 2024 to Friday 16 February 2024, and Monday 19 February to Tuesday 20 February 2024, from 09:00 to 15:45 hours.
• Saturday 17 February 2024, from 09:30 to 12:00 hours.
• Wednesday 21 February 2024, from 09:00 to 12:00 hours.

Note that no viewings will be conducted on Sunday, 18 February 2024.

Participation Conditions and Deposit Requirements

To submit a bid, interested parties must comply with specific deposit requirements, particularly for items that require a financial guarantee. Each bid must be accompanied by a deposit amounting to at least 10% of the bid value. This deposit must be made via a Banker’s Cheque, payable to the Director-General of the MRA, and deposited in the designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding deadline.

Personal cheques are not accepted, and the Banker’s Cheque should be clearly marked with the bidder’s name and the items for which the deposit is intended. The deposit acts as a security measure to ensure seriousness of bids and adherence to the auction rules.

Access and Security Protocols

All visitors attending the viewing sessions or entering the customs premises are required to carry valid identification, specifically their Identity Card, to gain access through the main port gate. This measure is in place to maintain security and facilitate smooth operations during the inspection period.

Implications for the Public and Bidders

This auction process offers an accessible avenue for the public to acquire goods that have been abandoned or unclaimed for a period. It emphasizes transparency through the use of an online platform and strict registration and deposit procedures. Bidders are encouraged to review the goods thoroughly during viewing sessions and to prepare their bids accordingly, ensuring compliance with all stipulated rules and deadlines.

For further details, interested parties should consult the official communications from the Mauritius Revenue Authority or contact the Customs Department directly via the provided channels.