Mauritius Public Tender for Unclaimed Goods Sale

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

Introduction and Purpose of the Notice

This official communication, issued by the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) on 30 March 2023, serves to inform the public about an upcoming sale of abandoned and unclaimed goods through a public tender process. The sale is conducted via the MRA's Online Auction System and is aimed at liquidating general goods that have been left unclaimed within customs premises. This notice provides essential details for prospective bidders, including registration procedures, viewing arrangements, bidding protocols, and requirements for participation.

Scope and Application

This notice specifically targets individuals and entities interested in acquiring goods classified as general items that have been abandoned or remain unclaimed at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge. It applies to all potential bidders, whether registered or new entrants, seeking to participate in the online auction from 29 March to 5 April 2023. The process is open to the general public, with provisions for onsite bidding assistance for those lacking internet access.

Details of the Auction and Goods on Sale

The goods available for sale comprise a variety of general merchandise, which will be listed on the MRA's Online Auction System under Quotation No. QUO202301. The items will be accessible for viewing starting from Wednesday, 29 March 2023, at 09.00 hours. The auction will close on Wednesday, 5 April 2023, at 12.00 hours. The physical display of goods allows prospective bidders to inspect the items beforehand, facilitating informed bidding decisions.

Viewing Arrangements and Inspection Periods

• Wednesday 29 March 2023 to Friday 31 March 2023, from 09.00 hrs to 15.45 hrs
• Saturday 01 April 2023, from 09.30 hrs to 12.00 hrs
• Monday 03 April 2023 to Tuesday 04 April 2023, from 09.00 hrs to 15.45 hrs
• Wednesday 05 April 2023, from 09.00 hrs to 12.00 hrs

Inspection is limited to these scheduled dates and times, allowing bidders to assess the condition and nature of the goods prior to submitting their bids.

Participation and Bid Submission Conditions

Prospective bidders must adhere to specific procedural requirements to participate in the auction. For those not previously registered on the Online Auction System, registration is mandatory and can be completed through the designated online portal. Bidders submitting bids that involve a deposit are required to provide a security deposit amounting to at least 10% of their bid value. This deposit must be paid via a banker’s cheque, drawn in favor of the Director-General of the MRA, and deposited in a designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding deadline.

Personal cheques are not accepted for deposit payments. The cheque should be enclosed in an envelope clearly indicating the bidder's name and the specific items for which the deposit is intended. Additionally, the auction provides three bidding booths equipped with computers at the Customs Warehouse for individuals without internet access, ensuring inclusiveness in participation.

Access and Identification Requirements

All visitors attending the inspection or bidding onsite are required to carry their Identity Cards to facilitate access within the Freeport Zone 1. This measure ensures security and proper identification of participants involved in the auction process.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways for Bidders

This official notice underscores the Mauritius Revenue Authority’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in managing the sale of abandoned goods. Prospective bidders are encouraged to register early, attend inspection sessions as scheduled, and comply with deposit requirements to participate successfully. The digital platform enhances accessibility and convenience, aligning with the government’s broader push for e-governance and digital service delivery.

Participants should regularly consult the MRA's official channels for updates and further instructions related to the auction process. This initiative offers an opportunity for interested parties to acquire goods at competitive prices while supporting the effective management of unclaimed assets within Mauritius’s customs framework.