Mauritius Revenue Authority Announces Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed

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

This official communication from the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA), dated 6 October 2020, provides detailed information regarding the upcoming sale of abandoned and unclaimed goods through a public tender process. The notice aims to inform the general public and prospective bidders about the procedures, dates, and requirements associated with this auction, which is conducted via the MRA’s online auction platform.

Scope and Purpose of the Notice

The primary objective of this notice is to announce the sale of certain goods, specifically alcoholic products, that have been abandoned or remain unclaimed within the customs system. Such goods are often held at the Customs Warehouse located in Mer Rouge, Port Louis, and are disposed of through a transparent public tender process. This initiative aligns with the MRA’s mandate to efficiently manage seized or unclaimed goods, recover revenue, and promote transparency in customs operations.

Target Audience and Eligibility

This notice is directed at individuals and entities interested in acquiring goods through public tenders, including registered and new prospective bidders. To participate, interested parties who are not yet registered with the MRA’s online auction system must complete a registration process accessible via the official website. The notice emphasizes that all bidders must adhere to the specified procedures, including the submission of deposits and viewing arrangements.

Key Details of the Auction Process

Dates and Items for Sale

• The auction is scheduled from 8 October to 14 October 2020.
• The list of items, primarily alcoholic beverages, will be published on the MRA’s online auction platform starting Thursday, 8 October 2020, at 09:00 hours.
• Bidding will close on Wednesday, 14 October 2020, at 12:00 hours.

Viewing Arrangements

Potential bidders are encouraged to view the goods in person at the Customs Warehouse, Lux Shed, Mer Rouge, during designated viewing periods:

1. 8 and 9 October 2020, from 09:00 to 15:45
2. 10 October 2020, from 09:30 to 12:00
3. 12 and 13 October 2020, from 09:00 to 15:45
4. 14 October 2020, from 09:00 to 12:00

Bid Submission and Deposits

All bids must be accompanied by a deposit of 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. The cheque must be deposited in a designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding deadline. To facilitate participation, three bidding booths equipped with computer terminals will be available at the warehouse for those without internet access. Bidders are advised to clearly state their name and the items for which the deposit is made on the envelope containing the cheque.

Procedural Requirements and Access

Participants are required to bring valid identification, such as an Identity Card, when visiting the Customs Warehouse for viewing or bidding purposes. The online auction platform can be accessed through the MRA’s official website, where prospective bidders can register and place their bids securely. The system is designed to ensure transparency and fairness in the sale process, adhering to the legal framework governing public tenders and customs procedures in Mauritius.

Legal and Organizational References

This notice is issued under the authority of the Mauritius Revenue Authority, which operates within the legal context provided by the Customs Act and relevant regulations. The auction process aligns with the MRA’s mandate to manage and dispose of unclaimed goods in accordance with applicable laws and administrative procedures. The online auction platform, accessible via the official website, is part of the government’s broader initiative to promote digital services and streamline administrative processes.

Conclusion

The sale of abandoned and unclaimed goods by public tender represents an important opportunity for individuals and businesses to acquire goods at potentially favorable terms. Interested parties are encouraged to review the detailed schedule, adhere to the procedural requirements, and participate through the online platform or at the Customs Warehouse in Mer Rouge. This process exemplifies the transparency and efficiency promoted by the Mauritius Revenue Authority in managing customs assets and supporting economic activity.