GeM Portal Registration for Sellers: Documents and Onboarding

Registering as a seller on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal allows businesses, including MSMEs, to supply goods and services to government departments and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). The process requires a valid PAN, GSTIN, and bank account. After registration, sellers can list products, obtain OEM authorization, and benefit from preferential procurement policies, particularly for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs).

What are the prerequisites for GeM seller registration?

To register as a seller on the GeM portal, you primarily need a valid PAN, GSTIN, and an active bank account. These are fundamental for identity verification, tax compliance, and financial transactions.

• PAN (Permanent Account Number): This is essential for all financial transactions in India and serves as the primary identifier for your business on GeM. The PAN must be linked to the legal entity registering (individual, proprietorship, partnership, company, etc.).
• GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number): Most businesses supplying goods or services to government entities will require a GSTIN. This ensures tax compliance and enables proper invoicing. Certain exempted categories might not require GSTIN, but for most sellers, it's mandatory.
• Bank Account: An active bank account in the name of the registered business entity is crucial for receiving payments from government buyers. The bank account details must match the PAN and GSTIN information.
• Aadhaar Number: For individual proprietors or authorized representatives, an Aadhaar number linked to a mobile number is often required for OTP-based verification during the registration process.
• Business Registration Documents: Depending on your business structure, you might need partnership deeds, Certificates of Incorporation, Udyam Registration (for MSMEs), etc., to complete your profile.
• Email ID and Mobile Number: These are used for communication, OTP verification, and account management.

How does the GeM seller registration flow work?

The GeM seller registration flow is an online, step-by-step process that starts with creating an account and progresses through business details, profile completion, and product listing.

1. Account Creation:

   • Visit the GeM portal (gem.gov.in).
   • Click on "Sign Up" -> "Seller."
   • Choose "Proprietor" or "Organisation/Company" based on your business structure.
   • Enter your Aadhaar number (for proprietors) or PAN (for organisations) and verify using OTP.
   • Create a user ID and password.

2. Profile Completion (My Profile):

   • Log in to your newly created account.
   • Navigate to "My Profile" and update all mandatory fields. This includes:
     • Organisation Details: Legal name, type of organisation, date of incorporation/registration.
     • Business Address: Registered office address.
     • Bank Account Details: Account number, IFSC code, bank name.
     • PAN Details: Verify your PAN.
     • GSTIN Details: Verify your GSTIN.
     • Income Tax Details: Upload relevant income tax returns (optional but recommended).
     • MSME Details: If applicable, provide your Udyam Registration Number to avail benefits.
     • Experience Details: Provide details of past contracts or experience (optional).

3. Company Profile:

   • Upload necessary documents like PAN card copy, GST certificate, cancelled cheque, Udyam Registration Certificate (if MSME).
   • Ensure all details match your official documents to avoid rejection.

4. Product/Service Listing:

   • Once your profile is complete and verified, you can start listing your products or services.
   • Navigate to "Catalog" -> "Products" -> "Add New Product."
   • Search for existing product categories. If your product doesn't fit an existing category, you might need to raise a request for a new category.
   • Provide detailed specifications, images, pricing, and warranty information.
   • For services, similar steps apply, defining the scope and terms.

5. OEM Authorization (if applicable):

   • If you are a reseller or a distributor, you need to obtain Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) authorization for the brands you intend to sell. This is done through the GeM portal by the OEM itself, authorizing you as their seller.

6. Bid Participation:

   • Once products are listed, you can start participating in bids and direct purchase opportunities floated by government buyers.

How do I list products and get OEM authorization on GeM?

Listing products on GeM involves selecting appropriate categories and providing detailed specifications, while OEM authorization is a separate process where the brand owner officially permits you to sell their products.

Product Listing:

1. Login and Navigate: Log in to your GeM seller account and go to the "Catalog" section.
2. Search Product Category: Use the search bar to find the relevant product category for your item. GeM has a vast catalog structure.
3. Select Product Type: Choose whether you are listing a "Standard Product" (already available on GeM with predefined specifications) or a "Custom Product" (new product with unique specifications).
4. Provide Details:
   • Product Specifications: Fill in all mandatory attributes like brand, model, technical specifications, features, and warranty. Be accurate and detailed.
   • Pricing: Enter your selling price. GeM has a price comparison mechanism, so competitive pricing is crucial.
   • Images: Upload high-quality images of your product from different angles.
   • Documents: Attach any relevant documents like brochures, test certificates, or compliance reports.
   • Inventory and Delivery: Specify available stock and delivery timelines.
5. Publish: Review all details and publish your product. It will undergo a moderation process by GeM before becoming live.

OEM Authorization:

OEM Authorization is critical for resellers and distributors on GeM. Without it, you cannot sell branded products.

1. OEM Registration: The Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) must first be registered on GeM as an OEM.
2. Authorization Process:
   • The OEM logs into their GeM account.
   • They navigate to the "OEM Panel" and select "Manage Resellers/Distributors."
   • The OEM searches for your seller ID or GSTIN.
   • They then issue an "Authorization Letter" or "OEM Authorization Certificate" directly through the GeM portal, linking their products to your seller account.
   • This authorization specifies the products/categories you are authorized to sell and the validity period.
3. Seller's Role: As a seller, you must ensure your profile is fully updated and verified. Once the OEM authorizes you, you will see the authorization reflected in your seller panel, allowing you to list the OEM's products.
4. Validity: OEM authorizations have a validity period, and it's the seller's responsibility to ensure they are renewed by the OEM before expiry.

How does the GeM vendor rating system work?

The GeM vendor rating system assesses a seller's performance based on various parameters, providing buyers with insights into reliability and service quality. This rating influences a seller's visibility and chances of winning bids.

The rating system considers factors such as:

• Order Fulfilment: Timeliness of delivery, adherence to specifications, and successful completion of orders.
• Product Quality: Compliance of delivered goods/services with the specifications listed and buyer satisfaction.
• Buyer Feedback: Ratings and reviews provided by government buyers after a transaction.
• Compliance: Adherence to GeM policies, terms and conditions, and statutory requirements.
• Return/Replacement Rate: Frequency of product returns or requests for replacement due to defects or discrepancies.
• Complaint Resolution: Efficiency and effectiveness in addressing and resolving buyer complaints.

Impact of Vendor Rating:

• Visibility: Higher-rated sellers often appear more prominently in search results and bid evaluations.
• Buyer Trust: A good rating builds trust among government buyers, increasing the likelihood of securing orders.
• Eligibility for Bids: Some high-value bids might have minimum vendor rating requirements.
• Performance Monitoring: GeM uses this system to monitor seller performance and take action against consistently underperforming vendors.

What is the MSE preferential procurement policy on GeM?

The Micro and Small Enterprises (MSE) preferential procurement policy on GeM is a government initiative to promote and support MSEs by mandating that government departments and PSUs procure a certain percentage of their annual requirements from these enterprises.

This policy is governed by the Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) Order, 2012, issued by the Ministry of MSME, and subsequent amendments. Key provisions include:

• Mandatory Procurement: Central Ministries, Departments, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) are mandated to procure a minimum of 25% of their total annual procurement of goods and services from MSEs.
• Sub-targets within 25%:
  • 4% out of the 25% is earmarked for procurement from MSEs owned by Scheduled Castes (SC) / Scheduled Tribes (ST) entrepreneurs.
  • 3% out of the 25% is earmarked for procurement from MSEs owned by women entrepreneurs.
• Exemption from Earnest Money Deposit (EMD): MSEs are generally exempted from paying EMD in tender processes.
• Tender Document Cost Exemption: MSEs are also exempted from paying tender document costs.
• Price Preference: In a tender, if an MSE quotes a price within the L1+15% range (where L1 is the lowest bid), they may be given an opportunity to match the L1 price. If they match, the order may be placed with them for at least 25% of the total tendered quantity.
• GeM Integration: GeM facilitates the implementation of this policy by clearly marking MSE sellers and providing filters for buyers to identify and procure from them. Sellers must have a valid Udyam Registration to avail these benefits.

This policy aims to foster the growth of the MSME sector, enhance their competitiveness, and ensure their participation in government procurement.

Comparison of GeM Seller Types

Feature	Proprietor / Individual Seller	Organisation / Company Seller
Legal Entity	Individual, sole owner	Private Limited Company, LLP, Partnership Firm, Society, Trust
PAN Requirement	Individual PAN	Entity's PAN
GSTIN Requirement	Mandatory if turnover exceeds threshold or selling taxable goods/services	Mandatory for most
Bank Account	Individual's bank account (preferably business account)	Entity's bank account
Aadhaar Requirement	Mandatory for registration	For authorized signatory/representative
Liability	Unlimited personal liability	Limited liability (for companies/LLPs)
Documents	PAN card, Aadhaar, bank statement, Udyam (optional)	Certificate of Incorporation/Registration, Partnership Deed, MOA/AOA, PAN, GSTIN, bank statement, Udyam (optional)
Complexity of Setup	Relatively simpler	More complex, requires formal registration
Perception by Buyers	May be perceived as smaller scale	Generally perceived as more established and professional

How SP & SC helps

Navigating the complexities of GeM portal registration, especially for new businesses or MSMEs, can be challenging. SP & SC Legal and Taxation Services provides comprehensive support for business registration, including assistance with Udyam Registration, GST registration, and preparing all necessary documentation to ensure a smooth GeM seller onboarding process. Our experts ensure compliance and help you leverage preferential procurement policies. Learn more about our services at /services/start-business/sole-proprietorship.

Frequently asked questions

Can a sole proprietor register as a seller on GeM?

Yes, a sole proprietor can absolutely register as a seller on the GeM portal. They need to select the "Proprietor" option during registration and use their individual PAN and Aadhaar for verification. All business activities will be linked to their individual identity.

Is Udyam Registration mandatory for GeM?

Udyam Registration is not strictly mandatory for all sellers on GeM, but it is highly recommended for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs). Having a Udyam Registration allows sellers to avail significant benefits under the Public Procurement Policy for MSEs, such as exemption from Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) and tender document fees, and preferential procurement opportunities.

What if my product category is not available on GeM?

If your specific product category is not available on GeM, you can raise a request for a new product category. GeM has a process for category creation, where you submit details and specifications of your product, and the GeM team reviews and creates a new category if deemed appropriate. Until then, you might not be able to list that specific product.

How long does GeM seller registration take?

The initial GeM seller registration, including profile creation and document upload, can be completed within a few hours if all documents are ready. However, the verification process by GeM, especially for GSTIN and PAN, can take a few days. Product listing and OEM authorization are subsequent steps that depend on the complexity of your offerings and OEM responsiveness.

Can I sell services on GeM?

Yes, GeM is not just for goods; it also facilitates the procurement of a wide range of services by government departments and PSUs. You can register as a service provider and list your services, participate in service bids, and secure contracts, similar to selling goods.

What is the difference between a seller and an OEM on GeM?

A seller is any entity (individual, company, etc.) that registers on GeM to offer goods or services. An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) is the actual manufacturer or brand owner of a product. OEMs register on GeM to list their products and, crucially, to authorize other sellers (resellers, distributors) to sell their branded products on the platform.