Official Notice on the 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, identified as Quotation No. QUO202029, provides important information for interested bidders and members of the public about the procedures, dates, and conditions related to this sale. It is essential for potential participants to understand the scope and requirements outlined in this communication to ensure a smooth and compliant bidding process.
Context and Purpose of the Sale
The sale concerns goods that have been abandoned or remain unclaimed within the customs premises, specifically at the Customs Warehouse located in Mer Rouge, Port Louis. The goods for sale are primarily alcoholic products, which have been held by customs authorities for a period exceeding the statutory holding time without being claimed by their rightful owners. The purpose of this public tender is to dispose of these goods in a transparent manner, offering an opportunity for interested buyers to acquire items that would otherwise be forfeited or disposed of by the authorities.
Scope and Details of the Tender Process
The sale will be conducted via the MRA's dedicated Online Auction System, accessible through the official website. Bidders are invited to participate between 26 November and 2 December 2020. The list of items available for bidding will be published on the online platform on the morning of 26 November 2020, starting at 09.00 hours. Bidding will close precisely at 12.00 hours on 2 December 2020, marking the end of the auction period.
Participants who are not already registered on the MRA's online platform must complete the registration process beforehand. Registration can be done through the "e-Auction Sales" link available on the official MRA website, www.mra.mu. This process ensures that all bidders are verified and have access to the bidding interface.
Viewing and Inspection of Goods
To facilitate informed bidding, the goods will be displayed for viewing at the Customs Warehouse in Mer Rouge. The viewing schedule is as follows:
- Thursday 26 November to Friday 27 November 2020, from 09.00 to 15.45 hours
- Saturday 28 November 2020, from 09.30 to 12.00 hours
- Monday 30 November to Tuesday 1 December 2020, from 09.00 to 15.45 hours
- Wednesday 2 December 2020, from 09.00 to 12.00 hours
Visitors are advised to bring their identity cards for access at the Port Main Gate, ensuring security and proper identification during the inspection period.
Participation Conditions and Bidding Procedures
Any bid that involves a financial deposit must be accompanied by a deposit equivalent to at least 10% of the bid amount. The deposit should be made via a banker’s cheque payable to the Director-General of the MRA. This cheque must be deposited in a designated tender box located at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding deadline. Bidders are required to enclose their cheque in an envelope clearly indicating their name and the items for which the deposit is made. Personal cheques are not accepted under this process.
For those without internet access, the MRA has established three bidding booths equipped with computer terminals at the Customs Warehouse. These facilities are available to ensure that all interested parties can participate in the auction regardless of their technological resources.
Additional Information and Contact Details
Participants are encouraged to review all details carefully and to visit the Customs Warehouse during the viewing days for a comprehensive understanding of the goods on sale. For further inquiries or clarifications, contact details are provided as follows:
- Telephone: +230 202 0500
- Fax: +230 216 5946
- Email: [email protected]
This official notice underscores the Mauritius Revenue Authority’s commitment to transparency and fairness in the disposal of unclaimed goods. Interested bidders are advised to adhere strictly to the specified procedures and deadlines to participate effectively in the auction process.