How to Sell on GeM: Specs, Eligibility & Bidding
This guide explains how to sell on GeM, the Government e-Marketplace: who can sell, how buyers purchase, and how to list and bid so your offer is not rejected. It is written for manufacturers, traders and service providers, including MSEs and startups. BidNexa also helps businesses register and list correctly.
To sell on GeM, register as a seller, list each product under the correct category with every mandatory specification, and respond to buyer orders, bids and reverse auctions. Under GFR 2017 Rule 149, as revised on 10 July 2024, buyers can buy directly up to ₹50,000, buy from the lowest of at least three manufacturers from above ₹50,000 to ₹10 lakh, and must use bidding or reverse auction above ₹10 lakh.
How government buyers purchase on GeM
| Purchase value | How the buyer can buy |
|---|---|
| Up to ₹50,000 | Direct purchase from any available GeM seller meeting quality, specification and delivery needs |
| Above ₹50,000 up to ₹10 lakh | From the lowest-priced seller among at least three manufacturers meeting the requirement (L1) |
| Above ₹10 lakh | From the lowest-priced seller after mandatory online bidding or reverse auction on GeM |
Buyers may also use bidding or reverse auction for purchases below ₹10 lakh. Category-specific rules can apply, such as for automobiles.
Source: Department of Expenditure OM F.1/3/2024-PPD, 10 July 2024 (GFR 2017 Rule 149), as adopted in IIT Kanpur office order of 31 July 2024, data as of 10 July 2024.
Who can sell on GeM
Manufacturers (OEMs), authorised resellers and service providers can sell. Proprietorships, partnerships, LLPs, companies and societies can register. In many product categories a reseller needs authorisation from the OEM, and the OEM may need to approve the reseller on the platform. The category page on GeM states the rule for that category.
Selling on GeM, step by step
- Check what you sell. Find the GeM category that matches your product or service exactly. Category rules decide specifications, OEM requirements and certifications.
- Register as a seller. Create the seller account with PAN and an Aadhaar- or PAN-linked mobile, then complete GSTIN, bank and address details. Keep names identical across all records.
- Complete vendor assessment if the category needs it. Some categories require assessment before listing. Read the category's conditions before you start.
- List your catalogue. Enter every mandatory specification exactly as the category defines it, with price, stock and delivery terms.
- Track bids and reverse auctions. Watch bids in your category, read each bid document and respond before the closing time.
- Deliver, get CRAC and get paid. Deliver as per the order, get the consignee receipt and acceptance certificate, and track payment on the portal.
Full registration walkthrough: How to register on GeM as a seller.
Specifications and certifications
Every GeM category has mandatory specification parameters. Your listing must state each one exactly; a near match is treated as a mismatch. Many categories also require standards such as BIS marks, BEE star ratings or test reports. Check the category's specification document before you list, and keep certificates valid. Confirm in the bid document.
Pricing and catalogue tips
- Price for delivery to the consignee, with taxes as GeM shows them
- Keep stock and delivery periods realistic; failed orders hurt your rating
- Update prices when costs change, so you are not bound to an old rate
- Use clear product images and complete brand and model details
- Respond to buyer queries and bid clarifications quickly
Common reasons listings and bids fail
- One mandatory specification missing or different from the category's definition
- Reseller listing without valid OEM authorisation
- Expired certificates or test reports
- Business details on GeM not matching PAN, GST or bank records
- Bid documents not uploaded in the format the bid asks for
- Ignoring an MSE or Make in India condition in the bid
Related guides: EMD exemption for MSEs · Make in India local supplier classes · Why bids get rejected
Frequently asked questions
Who can sell on GeM?
Manufacturers, authorised resellers and service providers registered on GeM can sell. In many product categories a reseller needs OEM authorisation. The category's own rules on GeM state what is required.
How do government buyers purchase on GeM?
Under GFR 2017 Rule 149, as revised on 10 July 2024, buyers can buy directly up to ₹50,000, from the lowest of at least three manufacturers above ₹50,000 up to ₹10 lakh, and must use bidding or reverse auction above ₹10 lakh.
Is selling on GeM only for big companies?
No. MSEs, startups, traders and service providers sell on GeM. Eligible MSEs may get benefits such as EMD exemption in bids, if the bid allows it and their Udyam registration covers the item.
Why was my GeM product listing rejected?
The most common reasons are a missing or mismatched mandatory specification, missing OEM authorisation for a reseller, expired certificates, and business details that do not match PAN, GST or bank records. Check the category's specification document and fix each point before you resubmit.
Can Bid Nexa help me sell on GeM?
Yes. BidNexa helps with GeM seller registration, catalogue listing, vendor assessment preparation and bid support. Bid Nexa is independent and not affiliated with GeM; you keep your own login and OTPs.
Talk to a Bid Nexa expert
Want your GeM registration and catalogue done right the first time? We scope the work and share the fee in writing before we start.
Or call +91 62021 65869. Bid Nexa is not affiliated with GeM or any buyer.