Guides · Getting started
What is GeM and who can sell on it?
GeM, the Government e-Marketplace, is the Government of India's online platform for buying goods and services, launched in 2016 and used by central ministries, departments, PSUs and many state governments. Any Indian business with a PAN, a bank account and the registrations its products need can register as a seller and bid; micro and small enterprises and DPIIT-recognised startups get specific relaxations.
What GeM does
GeM replaces paper tenders and separate purchase portals with one marketplace. Buyers publish bids and reverse auctions; sellers list catalogue products or respond to bids; award, contract and payment run through the same portal.
Who can register as a seller
- Proprietors, partnerships, LLPs, companies, societies and trusts, with a PAN, a bank account and the Aadhaar-linked mobile of the person who will operate the account.
- GST registration where the goods or services are taxable; some categories and thresholds are exempt, and GeM says so at registration.
- Udyam registration if you are a micro or small enterprise. It is optional to register, but the exemptions in the next guide depend on it.
- For some product categories GeM requires vendor assessment or an OEM authorisation before you can offer the product.
What the relaxations are for
Government procurement rules give micro and small enterprises purchase preference and earnest-money exemption, and give DPIIT-recognised startups relief from prior-turnover and prior-experience conditions on many bids. Each bid document states which relaxations apply to it. See How do I get an EMD exemption on GeM?.
Where iBid.Win helps
The Company Portfolio holds the registrations and certificates a GeM bid asks for, reads their validity dates, and reminds you before one lapses.
Frequently asked
Can a new company with no turnover sell on GeM?
Yes. Registration does not need past turnover. Individual bids may set turnover or experience conditions, and DPIIT-recognised startups are exempt from those on many bids.
Is GeM registration free?
Seller registration on GeM does not carry a registration fee. Some categories require vendor assessment, and GeM's own pages state what that involves.
Can a trader or reseller sell on GeM?
Yes, usually with an OEM authorisation for the brands offered. The bid document says whether a manufacturer authorisation form is required.
Last checked 08 September 2026. Written from GeM's published process and this platform's own rules; the bid document and the GeM portal are the authority on any date or amount.