Public Tender for Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by Mauritius Revenue

Overview of the Public Tender for Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by the Mauritius Revenue Authority

The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official notice regarding the sale of abandoned and unclaimed goods through a public tender process. This initiative aims to dispose of various items that have been left unclaimed at customs warehouses, providing an opportunity for interested bidders to acquire these goods via an online auction platform. The notice, identified as Communique 49 of 2019, outlines the procedures, schedules, and conditions applicable to this sale, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all potential participants.

Scope and Purpose of the Notice

This notice serves as an official communication to the general public, informing them of the upcoming sale of specific categories of goods, including plumbing materials, MDF boards, scarves, and general merchandise. The primary objective is to facilitate the lawful disposal of goods that have remained unclaimed beyond the statutory period, in accordance with the legal framework governing customs and taxation in Mauritius. The sale is conducted via the MRA’s dedicated Online Auction System, reflecting the government’s push towards digitalization and efficient public service delivery.

Eligibility and Registration Process

Prospective bidders who are not yet registered must complete the registration process on the MRA’s Online Auction System. Registration can be accessed through the designated link on the official website www.mra.mu. It is essential for participants to provide accurate identification details, as the system is integrated with the national identity database, ensuring a secure and streamlined process. Bidders are advised to register well in advance of the auction commencement date to avoid any last-minute issues.

Details of the Auction and Items for Sale

The auction will be officially launched on Wednesday, 16 October 2019, at 09:00 hrs, with the list of items made available on the online platform. The sale will conclude on Wednesday, 23 October 2019, at 12:00 hrs. The items for sale are displayed at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge, where viewing arrangements are made on specific dates and times:

• 16 to 18 October 2019: 09:00 hrs – 15:45 hrs
• Saturday, 19 October 2019: 09:30 hrs – 12:00 hrs
• 21 to 22 October 2019: 09:00 hrs – 15:45 hrs
• 23 October 2019: 09:00 hrs – 12:00 hrs

Participants can view the goods in person during these hours, which provides an opportunity to assess the condition and quantity of items prior to bidding.

Bidding Procedures and Deposit Requirements

Interested bidders must place their bids online through the auction platform. For bids that involve a monetary deposit, participants are required to submit a banker’s cheque representing at least 10% of their bid amount. The cheque must be drawn in favor of the Director-General, Mauritius Revenue Authority and deposited in the designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding deadline. The cheque should be enclosed in an envelope clearly indicating the bidder’s name and the specific items for which the deposit is made.

Personal cheques are not accepted, emphasizing the importance of secure and verifiable payment methods. For individuals without internet access, the MRA provides three bidding booths equipped with computers at the Customs Warehouse, Mer Rouge, to facilitate participation.

Access and Identification Requirements

All visitors and bidders are required to carry valid identification, such as their National Identity Card, to gain access at the Port Main Gate. This measure ensures security and proper identification of all participants involved in the auction process.

Legal and Administrative References

This notice is issued in accordance with the legal provisions governing the sale of abandoned goods under the jurisdiction of the Mauritius Revenue Authority. It aligns with the government’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in public asset management, leveraging digital platforms to reach a wider audience and facilitate fair bidding processes.

Conclusion

The public tender for abandoned and unclaimed goods by the Mauritius Revenue Authority exemplifies the government’s proactive approach to asset management and public service modernization. Citizens and businesses interested in acquiring such goods are encouraged to review the detailed schedule, adhere to the bidding procedures, and ensure compliance with the deposit requirements. The online auction system provides a convenient and transparent platform for participation, reflecting the ongoing digital transformation within Mauritius’s administrative landscape.