GeM Portal — Government e-Marketplace Seller Guide

What is GeM (Government e-Marketplace)?

GeM (Government e-Marketplace) is the Government of India's official online platform for government buyers (ministries, departments, PSUs, state governments) to procure goods and services directly from registered sellers without going through lengthy tender processes.

GeM is operated by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It enables:

• Businesses to sell directly to government — no middlemen
• Government buyers to compare and purchase from multiple sellers
• Transparent pricing — all sellers' prices visible on the portal
• MSMEs, startups, SC/ST entrepreneurs get procurement preference

In FY 2023–24, GeM crossed ₹4 lakh crore in total GMV (Gross Merchandise Value) — India's largest government procurement platform.

Who Can Register as a Seller?

• Registered businesses — any company, firm, proprietorship, partnership, LLP
• MSMEs registered on Udyam (get preference)
• Startups recognized by DPIIT
• SC/ST entrepreneurs (get procurement preference)
• Self Help Groups (SHGs) and artisans/weavers
• Farmers (for agricultural produce)

Minimum requirement: Valid business registration (GST registration preferred; PAN mandatory)

What Can You Sell on GeM?

GeM covers over 10,000+ product categories and services:

How to Register as a Seller — Step by Step

1. Go to gem.gov.in → click "Seller" → "Register"
2. Enter your mobile number → OTP verification
3. Enter your PAN number → linked to your business or personal PAN
4. Fill in business details:
   • Type of business (proprietor, company, LLP, etc.)
   • Business name, address
   • GST number (if registered)
   • Udyam registration (if MSME)
5. Upload documents:
   • PAN card
   • GST certificate (if applicable)
   • Bank account details (cancelled cheque)
   • Business registration certificate
6. Set up your product/service catalogue:
   • Add products with descriptions, specifications, images, price
   • Products are verified by GeM before going live
7. Your seller profile goes live after verification (typically 2–3 days)

MSME and Startup Benefits on GeM

GeM Procurement Process (How Orders Come In)

1. Direct purchase (≤₹10,000): Government buyer directly adds to cart and orders from your product listing
2. L1 purchase (₹10,000–₹25,000): Buyer picks the lowest price among 3 sellers
3. Bidding (₹25,000+): Buyer creates a bid; you submit your offer; lowest bidder wins
4. RA (Reverse Auction): For large orders — price drops in real-time bidding

Payment and Taxes on GeM

• Payment within 10 working days after delivery/acceptance — mandatory for government buyers
• GST applies on all transactions; GeM handles the GST compliance framework
• TDS deducted by government on purchases (1% TDS under Section 194Q)

Weavers, Artisans, and SHG — Special GeM Registration

If you are an artisan, weaver, or Self Help Group:

1. Go to gem.gov.in → "Seller" → "Artisan/Craftsman"
2. Link with your Aadhaar (individual craftsman) or organisation registration
3. Special categories: Handloom, Handicraft, Khadi — get buyer preference

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need GST to register on GeM?

PAN is mandatory; GST is required for most product sales above ₹40 lakh/year (composition dealer threshold). For small sellers below GST threshold, you can still register with PAN only, but large orders may require GST.

How long does it take to get the first order on GeM?

There is no guaranteed timeline. Sellers who add comprehensive catalogues, competitive pricing, and get Udyam registration typically see orders within 1–3 months. Patience and price competitiveness are key.

Is there any registration fee on GeM?

No — GeM registration is completely free for sellers.

Can I sell both products and services on GeM?

Yes — register as a seller for products OR services or both. Service sellers add service contracts with specifications.

My product received no bids. What can I do?

Update your product listing with better images, detailed specifications, and competitive pricing. You can also apply for "GeM SAHAY" — GeM's seller outreach program — to get guidance.

Official Links

• Seller registration: gem.gov.in → Seller Portal
• Direct seller login: seller.gem.gov.in
• GeM helpdesk: 1800-419-3436 (toll-free)
• Email support: helpdesk-gem@gem.gov.in