Mauritius Rum and Liquor Licence Renewal Notice

Official Notice on the Renewal of Rum and Liquor Licences in Mauritius

This official communication from the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA), dated 16 December 2011, provides essential guidance for holders of Rum and Liquor Licences under the provisions of the Excise Act 1994. It aims to inform licensees about the renewal procedures, deadlines, and associated fees to ensure continued legal operation within the liquor trade sector.

Scope and Applicability

This notice specifically addresses all entities and individuals holding Rum and Liquor Licences issued under Part II of the Second Schedule to the Excise Act 1994. These licences authorize the legal production, sale, and distribution of rum and other liquors in Mauritius. The guidance herein applies to these licensees seeking to renew their licences for the upcoming licensing period.

Key Deadlines and Penalties

The Mauritius Revenue Authority emphasizes that the final date for the payment of renewal fees is 16 January 2012. Licensees are advised to complete their payments by this deadline to avoid penalties. Failure to do so will incur a surcharge of 50% of the original licence fee, which will be added to the amount payable after the deadline.

It is important to note that, under Regulation 6 of the Excise Act 1994, renewal applications submitted more than two months after the expiry of the licence will not be entertained. This underscores the importance of timely renewal to prevent disruptions in licensure and associated business activities.

Procedures for Payment and Renewal

Payment Methods

• Cash payments can be made directly at the MRA’s main cash office located at Ehram Court, corner of Mgr Gonin and Sir Virgil Naz Streets, Port Louis.
• Cheque payments should be payable to the Director General, Mauritius Revenue Authority.

Operational Hours

The cash office operates on weekdays from 09:00 to 15:30 hours. Licensees are encouraged to plan their visits accordingly to ensure smooth processing of their renewal payments.

Required Documentation

License holders must present their original receipt of the last renewal payment at the time of making the new payment. This serves as proof of previous compliance and facilitates the renewal process.

Implications for Licence Holders

Timely renewal of Rum and Liquor Licences is crucial for maintaining legal compliance and uninterrupted business operations. Licensees should be aware of the upcoming deadline and ensure their payments are made within the stipulated period. Delays or late payments may result in significant surcharges and the inability to renew the licence if submitted beyond the two-month grace period after expiry.

Additionally, licensees are encouraged to verify their current licence status and keep track of renewal deadlines to avoid administrative complications. The Mauritius Revenue Authority remains committed to facilitating a smooth renewal process through its online and physical services.

Contact and Further Assistance

For any inquiries or assistance regarding the renewal process, licensees can contact the Mauritius Revenue Authority via the following:

• Telephone: 2076000
• Fax: 211 8099
• Email: [email protected]

It is advisable to consult the official MRA website or contact their offices directly for updates or changes related to the renewal procedures, especially considering the evolving digital services environment in Mauritius.

Conclusion

This official notice underscores the importance of adhering to the renewal deadlines for Rum and Liquor Licences to ensure compliance with the Excise Act 1994. By following the outlined procedures and submitting payments on time, licensees can avoid penalties and continue their operations without interruption. The Mauritius Revenue Authority remains a key resource for guidance and support in this process, emphasizing its commitment to efficient administrative service delivery.