Public Auction of Gov’t Assets – June 12

Members of the public are being encouraged to take advantage of the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service’s upcoming public auction on June 12, which will feature a wide selection of motor vehicles, furniture, and other government assets available at competitive prices.

The auction, being conducted through the Ministry’s Asset Management and Disposal Services Branch (AMDSB), forms part of the Government’s ongoing effort to transparently and efficiently dispose of assets that have been retired from operational use.

It will be held at the AMDSB, 1A Shalimar Avenue, Kingston 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Pre registration should be completed upon collection of catalogues, or on the day of the auction by 9:00 a.m.

Viewing of the items commenced on May 28, and will continue until June 11 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

AMDSB Director, Stephanie Matthews, told JIS News that the auction provides an opportunity for members of the public to acquire both serviceable and unserviceable assets, while supporting the Government’s broader asset management process.

“The public auction is one of the ways we ensure that government assets that are no longer required for operational purposes are disposed of in a fair, transparent and accountable manner. It also gives members of the public access to a variety of items at affordable starting bids,” she explained.

Items available for sale include motor vehicles such as pickups and buses, along with office furniture, filing cabinets, and specialised equipment.

In addition, some forfeited vehicles received through the Accountant General’s Department may also be offered, where available.

Ms. Matthews noted that starting bids for motor vehicles generally range from $5,000 to $1.5 million, depending on their condition and functionality. She added that miscellaneous assets are typically grouped into lots, with starting bids ranging from approximately $6,500 to $10,000.

She is encouraging prospective bidders to inspect the items prior to auction day in order to gain a clear understanding of their condition.

“Viewing the items beforehand allows individuals to make informed decisions. It provides a first-hand look at the state of the assets and helps bidders determine their value and suitability before placing a bid,” Ms. Matthews explained.

Any member of the public is eligible to participate; however, interested persons must be registered with the Jamaica Customs Agency.
Registration requires two passport sized photographs, a Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN), valid identification, and a registration fee of $2,000.

Ms. Matthews noted that registered bidders are assigned a unique bidder number, which is used throughout the auction process to identify participants and ensure orderly bidding.

The Ministry is reminding prospective purchasers that all items are sold on an ‘as is, where is’ basis, meaning, assets are offered in their existing condition and buyers are responsible for removing them from their respective locations after purchase.