If you are an exporter looking to grow your business and reach a wider market, Gem registration can be a great opportunity. In this guide, we will explain in simple words how exporters can register on GeM at an affordable price, what benefits they can get, and the steps they should follow.
What is GeM?
GeM stands for Government e-Marketplace. It is an online portal created by the Indian government to make the buying and selling process between businesses and government departments simple, fast, and transparent.
Government departments use this portal to purchase goods and services they need, and sellers use it to showcase and sell their offerings. GeM is a paperless, cashless, and system-driven platform that has helped improve efficiency in public procurement.
Why Should Exporters Register on GeM?
If you are a business from outside India or an Indian exporter based abroad, GeM allows you to tap into a new market — the Indian public sector. Here are some reasons why GeM is beneficial for exporters:
- Access to a Large Market: Government buyers across India use GeM. This includes ministries, defense departments, state governments, and public sector units.
- Increase in Sales: Government orders are often large and frequent, helping exporters achieve steady revenue.
- Low Competition: Not many exporters are registered yet, so early movers have a better chance of success.
- Fair Procurement: Transparent bidding and fair pricing ensure equal opportunity for all sellers.
- Ease of Doing Business: The platform is online, simple, and doesn’t require physical presence in India.
- No Middlemen: Exporters can deal directly with buyers, increasing profit margins.
Affordable GeM Registration for Exporters
Many exporters are worried about high registration costs, documentation, and legal complexities. However, the Indian government has made it easy and cost-effective for exporters to join GeM. Here's how:
- No Registration Fees: GeM does not charge any money to register on the platform. Registration is completely free.
- Low Compliance Requirements: Exporters need to provide only essential documents such as business registration, tax IDs (if available), and product details.
- Digital Assistance Services: Several online agencies and consultants offer affordable registration services, helping exporters at low prices.
- No Commission: GeM does not charge commission from sellers for orders placed through the portal.
Who Can Register?
GeM allows the following types of exporters to register:
- Foreign Companies with Indian Branches: If a company is based abroad but has a branch office in India, it can register.
- Indian Exporters Based Abroad: Indian companies or individuals living outside India can apply.
- Foreign Businesses with Indian Representatives: Exporters who appoint a local Indian agent can also complete the registration.
- Joint Ventures: Foreign and Indian companies working together can register and offer their goods.
Documents Required for Exporters
To register on GeM, exporters must submit the following documents:
- Business registration certificate or incorporation proof
- Tax Identification Number (TIN) or PAN (if available in India)
- Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT (if available)
- Bank account details (for receiving payments)
- Address proof (Indian office or Indian agent)
- Authorization letter if using an agent
- Product catalog with images and specifications
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) (for official communication and signing documents)
Note: If you do not have some Indian documents, you can work with a local representative who can act on your behalf.
Step-by-Step Registration Process for Exporters
- Visit the GeM Website: Go to the official GeM registration portal.
- Enter Details: Fill in basic information like name, email, phone number, and date of birth.
- OTP Verification: Enter the OTP received via SMS or email.
- GeM Confirmation: A GeM representative will call to confirm your OTP.
- Complete Registration: After verification, your registration is complete.
- Get GeM ID: Receive your seller ID and login credentials via email.
- Set Up Profile: Log in, set up your profile and list your products.
- Submit Caution Money: You'll be notified to submit caution money.
- Select Product Listing: On the dashboard, click Product Listing to add new products or manage your existing ones.
- Choose Product Category: Pick the correct category for your product. This helps government buyers find your product easily.
- Start Selling: Your products are now visible to government buyers, and you can begin receiving orders.
How to Keep Registration Cost Low
Here are a few smart tips to keep your GeM registration cost affordable:
- Do It Yourself: If you are comfortable using online forms and uploading documents, you can complete the process yourself at no cost.
- Use Affordable Agents: If you prefer expert help, many companies offer registration services starting from INR 999 or less. Compare prices and services before choosing.
- Use Digital Signature Providers: You can get a DSC online from licensed providers at low rates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wrong Document Upload: Make sure all documents are correct and updated.
- No Indian Contact Info: Provide a valid Indian mobile number or local representative.
- Incomplete Product Details: Add full specifications and clear images.
- Ignoring Profile Updates: Keep your profile updated with the latest contact, product, and bank information.
- Missing DSC: Always keep your Digital Signature Certificate active for smooth operations.
Benefits of Being a Registered Exporter on GeM
- New Buyer Base: You can now sell directly to Indian ministries, police departments, defense units, and schools.
- Repeat Orders: Satisfied government buyers often place repeat orders.
- National Recognition: Your company gets visibility and trust in the Indian market.
- Transparent System: Bidding, payments, and communication happen in a clear, trackable manner.
- No Marketing Needed: You don’t need to spend on advertising. Buyers come to the platform to find your products.
After Registration – What’s Next?
Once you’re approved as a GeM seller, here are some things to do:
- Participate in Bids: Take part in tenders and reverse auctions for your product category.
- Offer Competitive Pricing: Keep your pricing attractive for higher chances of winning bids.
- Ensure Timely Delivery: Government buyers prefer sellers who stick to delivery timelines.
- Track Payments: Use the GeM portal to track your invoices and payments.
- Improve Ratings: Deliver quality products and maintain good communication to get high ratings.
Suggested read- list of item on Gem portal
Conclusion
GeM is a golden opportunity for exporters who want to enter the Indian government procurement system. With free registration, easy documentation, and a huge buyer base, exporters can grow their business at very little cost. By taking advantage of affordable support services or registering on your own, you can become a GeM seller in just a few days.
If you are an exporter looking for new markets, it’s time to get started with GeM. Register today and give your business a chance to connect with one of the largest public procurement systems in the world.
This step-by-step guide helps you understand the entire process in simple terms. If you follow the instructions, you will be ready to sell to the Indian government in no time, without spending a lot of money.