Official Notice on the Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by Public Tender in Mauritius
The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official communication concerning the upcoming sale of abandoned and unclaimed goods through a public tender process. This notice, identified as Quotation No. QUO202028, provides essential details about the procedure, scope, and requirements for participation. It is intended for members of the public, potential bidders, and stakeholders interested in acquiring goods that have been abandoned or unclaimed within the customs system.
Context and Scope of the Sale
The sale pertains specifically to goods that have been classified as abandoned or unclaimed by the Customs Department of Mauritius. Such items are typically goods for which no owner has claimed possession within the statutory period, or for which customs procedures have not been completed. The current sale involves a selection of alcoholic products, among other items, which have been stored at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge, Port Louis.
This initiative aligns with the legal framework governing customs procedures and revenue collection, notably under the Mauritius Revenue Authority Act and relevant customs regulations. The process aims to recover value from goods that are no longer under the custody of the Customs Department and to prevent storage congestion within customs facilities.
Participation and Registration Procedures
Participation in the auction is open to the general public, with specific procedures for registration and bidding. Prospective bidders who are not yet registered must access the MRA’s official website at www.mra.mu to complete the registration process via the e-Auction Sales portal. This online platform facilitates the entire bidding process, allowing for transparency and efficiency.
Registered bidders can view the list of items for sale, which will be uploaded on Thursday, 19 November 2020, from 09:00 hours. The bidding period is scheduled to close on Wednesday, 25 November 2020, at 12:00 hours. Bidders are advised to ensure their registration is complete prior to the start of the bidding window to participate fully.
Details of the Goods and Viewing Arrangements
The auction will feature a variety of goods, with a focus on alcoholic beverages. The items will be displayed at the Customs Warehouse at Mer Rouge, allowing interested parties to inspect the goods beforehand. The viewing schedule is as follows:
- Thursday 19 November to Friday 20 November 2020 from 09:00 to 15:45
- Saturday 21 November 2020 from 09:30 to 12:00
- Monday 23 November to Tuesday 24 November 2020 from 09:00 to 15:45
- Wednesday 25 November 2020 from 09:00 to 12:00
Potential bidders are encouraged to visit during these hours to assess the goods' condition and verify details before placing bids.
Bid Submission and Deposit Requirements
To participate in the auction, bidders must submit their offers online via the designated e-Auction platform. For bids that require a deposit, a minimum of 10% of the bid amount must accompany the offer. This deposit should be made 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 banker’s cheque must be placed in an envelope clearly indicating the bidder’s name and the specific items for which the deposit is intended. This process ensures the integrity and transparency of the auction proceedings.
On-Site Facilities and Access
For bidders who do not have internet access, the Customs Warehouse will provide three bidding booths equipped with computer terminals. These facilities are available during the viewing and bidding periods, allowing for direct participation on-site.
All visitors and bidders must carry valid identity cards to gain access to the Port main gate and the auction premises. This security measure aligns with standard port and customs regulations to ensure safe and authorized entry.
References and Organizing Authority
This auction process is organized and overseen by the Mauritius Revenue Authority, the primary authority responsible for customs, taxation, and revenue collection. The official communication provides contact details, including telephone, fax, and email, for further inquiries or clarifications regarding the auction procedures.
Participants are encouraged to consult the official MRA website and the published notice for comprehensive details and updates related to this sale.