Public Tender Notice for Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods in Mauritius

Introduction to the Public Tender Notice for Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods

The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official notice to inform the public about an upcoming sale of abandoned and unclaimed goods through a public tender process. This notice, identified as Quotation No. QUO202032, provides essential details for prospective bidders interested in acquiring items, specifically alcoholic products, that have been left unclaimed or abandoned at customs warehouses. The sale is conducted via the MRA’s online auction platform, emphasizing the government’s push towards digital service delivery and transparency in public sales.

Scope and Nature of the Sale

This notice pertains to the sale of goods that have been classified as abandoned or unclaimed, with the specific category being alcoholic products. Such goods typically originate from shipments where the consignee has failed to claim the items within the statutory period. The sale aims to recover revenue and manage goods that are no longer under the custody of customs. The process is open to the general public, with a particular focus on ensuring fair access through the MRA’s electronic auction system.

Procedures for Participation and Registration

Prospective bidders who are not yet registered on the MRA’s online auction platform must undertake a registration process to participate in the tender. Registration is accessible via the e-Auction Sales link available on the official MRA website (www.mra.mu). Bidders are advised to complete their registration prior to the commencement of the bidding period to ensure smooth participation.

Registration involves providing necessary identification details, and successful registration grants access to view the list of items and place bids online. The system is designed to facilitate secure and transparent bidding, aligning with the government’s digital initiatives.

Details of the Sale and Viewing Arrangements

The sale will be conducted online from 3 December 2020 at 09:00 hours to 9 December 2020 at 12:00 hours. The list of items available for bidding, which includes various alcoholic products, will be posted on the auction platform on the opening day. Interested bidders are encouraged to examine the items beforehand, as physical viewing of the goods will be available at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge.

Viewing times are scheduled as follows:

• Thursday 3 December to Friday 4 December 2020, and Monday 7 December to Tuesday 8 December 2020, from 09:00 to 15:45
• Saturday 5 December 2020, from 09:30 to 12:00
• Wednesday 9 December 2020, from 09:00 to 12:00

During these viewing sessions, prospective bidders can inspect the goods in person, which is highly recommended to assess their condition and value prior to bidding.

Bid Submission, Deposits, and Security Measures

All bids must be accompanied by a deposit of at least 10% of the bid amount. This deposit must be made via a banker’s cheque drawn in favour of the Director-General, Mauritius Revenue Authority. The cheque should be deposited in a designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding closes. Personal cheques are not accepted to ensure security and transparency.

For bidders lacking internet access, the MRA provides three bidding booths equipped with computer terminals at the Customs Warehouse, Mer Rouge. This initiative ensures inclusivity and fair opportunity for all interested parties.

It is important that all bidders bring along valid identification, such as their Identity Card, to gain access through the port’s main gate and participate in the bidding process.

Implications for Bidders and the Public

This notice exemplifies the MRA’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in managing abandoned goods. By conducting sales through an online platform, the authority ensures wider accessibility and reduces the need for physical presence, aligning with current digital governance trends. Bidders are encouraged to adhere strictly to the procedures outlined, including viewing arrangements, deposit requirements, and registration protocols, to participate successfully in this public tender.

Members of the public and potential bidders are advised to monitor the official MRA website and communication channels for any updates or additional instructions related to the auction.