Official Notice of Public Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by

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

This document provides essential information regarding the Mauritius Revenue Authority's (MRA) initiative to sell abandoned and unclaimed goods through a public tender process. It is directed at potential bidders and interested members of the public who wish to participate in this auction, which is conducted via the MRA's Online Auction System. The notice aims to clarify the procedures, dates, and requirements associated with this sale, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all participants.

Scope and Purpose of the Notice

The primary objective of this notice is to inform the public about the upcoming sale of various goods that have been abandoned or left unclaimed within the customs premises. These goods, which include plumbing materials, hardware, and general merchandise, are part of the MRA's efforts to recover value from items that have not been collected or claimed by their owners. The sale is conducted through a transparent public tender process, accessible online, to facilitate wider participation and ensure fair bidding procedures.

Details of the Auction Process

Sale Period and Items Available

The auction will be held from 30 October to 6 November 2019. The list of items available for bidding will be published on the MRA's official website on Wednesday, 30 October 2019, at 09:00 hours. These items are displayed at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge, where viewing is permitted on specific dates and times:

• Wednesday 30 October to Thursday 31 October, from 09:00 to 15:45
• Friday 1 and Saturday 2 November – no viewing, due to public holidays
• Monday 4 and Tuesday 5 November, from 09:00 to 15:45
• Wednesday 6 November, from 09:00 to 12:00

Participation and Registration

Prospective bidders who are not yet registered on the MRA's Online Auction System must do so via the e-Auction Sales link available on the MRA website (www.mra.mu). Registration is mandatory to access the bidding platform and participate in the auction. Bidders are advised to complete their registration well before the auction start date to avoid last-minute issues.

Bidding Procedures and Deposit Requirements

All bids must be submitted online through the auction platform during the specified bidding period. For items requiring a bid deposit, bidders must provide a deposit of at least 10% of their bid amount. This deposit should be made via a banker’s cheque payable to the Director-General, Mauritius Revenue Authority. The cheque must be deposited in a designated tender box located at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding closes. The envelope containing the cheque should clearly state the bidder's name and the items for which the deposit is intended. Personal cheques are not accepted.

On-Site Facilities and Access

For bidders without internet access, the MRA has arranged for three bidding booths equipped with computers at the Customs Warehouse in Mer Rouge. Visitors are required to bring valid Identity Cards to gain access at the main port gate, ensuring security and proper identification during the viewing and bidding process.

Legal and Administrative Context

This auction process is conducted in accordance with the relevant legal framework governing public sales of abandoned goods in Mauritius, ensuring compliance with the applicable regulations. The notice emphasizes transparency, fairness, and equal opportunity for all interested parties to participate in the sale of goods that have been unclaimed for a specified period.

Implications for Bidders and the Public

Participants in this auction should be aware of the specific dates, registration procedures, and deposit requirements. Successful bidders will be required to complete payment and collection procedures as stipulated by the MRA. The digital nature of the auction platform facilitates broader access, allowing interested parties to bid remotely while ensuring the integrity and security of the process.

In conclusion, this official notice exemplifies the Mauritius Revenue Authority's commitment to transparency and efficiency in managing unclaimed goods, providing clear guidance to the public and fostering fair competition in public sales.