Public Tender Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods in Mauritius

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

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 Qu. 15 of 2024 and dated 3 April 2024, aims to inform the general public and potential bidders about the details, procedures, and conditions for participating in this auction. It is part of the authority’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency and efficient management of goods that have been left unclaimed at customs warehouses.

Scope and Purpose of the Notice

This notice serves as an official communication to inform interested parties about the sale of general goods that have been abandoned or unclaimed at the Customs Warehouse located at Mer Rouge, Port Louis. The sale is conducted via an online auction platform managed by the MRA, providing a transparent and accessible means for the public to acquire these goods. The primary objective is to recover costs associated with storage and to facilitate the disposal of goods that are no longer claimed by owners.

Details of the Auction Process

Timeline and Access

• The online auction will be open from Wednesday, 10 April 2024, at 09:00 hours, until Wednesday, 17 April 2024, at 12:00 hours.
• Prospective bidders must register on the MRA’s Online Auction System prior to participation, unless already registered. Registration details are accessible through the official portal.

Viewing of Goods

Potential buyers are invited to view the goods in person at the Customs Warehouse, Lux Shed, Mer Rouge, during designated viewing days and hours:

• Wednesday 10 April 2024 to Friday 12 April 2024, and Monday 15 April to Tuesday 16 April 2024, from 09:00 to 15:45.
• Saturday 13 April 2024, from 09:30 to 12:00.
• On Wednesday 17 April 2024, viewing is available from 09:00 to 12:00.

Note that there will be no viewings on Sunday, 14 April 2024, or on 10 and 11 April 2024.

Participation Conditions and Bid Submission

Bid Requirements

Interested bidders must submit their offers electronically via the online platform. For bids exceeding a certain threshold, a deposit is required to demonstrate commitment and seriousness. This deposit must be at least 10% of the bid amount and is to be paid through a Banker’s Cheque drawn in favor of the Director-General, MRA.

Deposit and Payment Procedures

• The Banker’s Cheque must be deposited in a designated tender box located at the Customs Warehouse, Mer Rouge, before the closing time of the auction.
• The cheque should be enclosed in an envelope clearly indicating the bidder’s name and the items for which the deposit is intended.
• Personal cheques will not be accepted for deposit payments.

Access and Identification

All visitors and bidders are required to present their national Identity Card (ID) at the Port Main Gate for access. This measure ensures security and proper identification of all participants involved in the auction process.

Implications for Bidders and the Public

This official notice underscores the Mauritius Revenue Authority’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in managing unclaimed goods. By providing detailed information about the auction process, viewing opportunities, and participation conditions, the MRA aims to facilitate fair bidding and optimal recovery of goods. Bidders are encouraged to review the terms carefully, prepare their bids accordingly, and ensure compliance with all procedural requirements.

For further information, updates, or technical assistance, interested parties are advised to consult the MRA’s official website or contact the Customs Department directly through the contact details provided in this notice.