ЁЯУЮ Help Desk: +91 - 8076818682
тП░ 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM | Mon - Sat
GeM Logo

GeM Registration Assistance Portal

рднрд╛рд░рдд рд╕рд░рдХрд╛рд░ рдХреЗ рд╕рд░рдХрд╛рд░реА рдИ-рдорд╛рд░реНрдХреЗрдЯрдкреНрд▓реЗрд╕ рдкрд░ рдкрдВрдЬреАрдХрд░рдг рд╣реЗрддреБ рд╕рд╣рд╛рдпрддрд╛ рдХреЗрдВрджреНрд░

Trusted by 10,000+ Sellers & Service Providers Across India

Complete Support for New Registration, Catalogue Upload & Compliance

ISO 9001:2015 Certified Service Portal

Helpline: +91 - 8076818682 | Mon to Sat: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

GeM Logo Swach
New Get тВ╣500 OFF on your first booking! Limited time offer тАУ Book now and save big!

Popular Product Categories On Gem Marketplace


Fil Up The Contact Form

Nature Of Business

Enter No Of Products To Show Fees

GeM Catalogue 2026: Complete Guide to Product Listing, Categories, and Procurement

Executive Summary

The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Catalogue represents India's most comprehensive digital procurement platform, facilitating seamless transactions between government entities and sellers across multiple sectors. As of 2026, GeM hosts over 10,000 products and services categorized across six quadrants (Q1-Q6), each with distinct seller eligibility criteria and procurement mechanisms. This comprehensive guide explores the GeM catalogue structure, product categories, tender processes, and practical procedures for both sellers and buyers.

1. Introduction to GeM Catalogue 2026

1.1 What is the GeM Catalogue?

The GeM Catalogue is the centralized product and service listing platform within the Government e-Marketplace, developed by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. It enables government ministries, departments, public sector units (PSUs), and other authorized bodies to procure goods and services directly from verified sellers[1].

Key Characteristics:

1.2 Objectives of GeM Catalogue 2026

2. GeM Catalogue Structure and Product Categories

2.1 The Six Quadrant System (Q1-Q6)

The GeM platform organizes products across six quadrants, each designed for specific product types and seller eligibility criteria[4]:

Quadrant Product Types Seller Eligibility Key Features
Q1 High-precision equipment, branded electronics, machinery, vehicles OEMs only Full manufacturer accountability, authenticity guaranteed
Q2 IT equipment, laptops, servers, standardized machinery OEMs + Authorized resellers Catalogue-based procurement, quality assured
Q3 Furniture, textiles, consumables OEMs + Resellers Common-use goods, multiple sellers
Q4 Stationery, IT accessories, consumables Resellers only Standardized items, competitive pricing
Q5 Services (consulting, training, R&D) Service providers Professional services procurement
Q6 ODOP products, handicrafts, artisanal goods OEMs only (with reseller pairing) District specialties, cultural preservation

Table 1: GeM Catalogue Quadrant Classification System

2.2 Major Product Categories

The GeM catalogue spans across diverse sectors:

3. How Product Listing Works on GeM Catalogue

3.1 Registration and Profile Creation

Step 1: GeM Portal Registration
Sellers must first complete the GeM registration process by providing[12]:

Step 2: Seller Profile Creation
After registration approval, sellers create a comprehensive profile including[13]:

3.2 Product Data Entry and Specifications

When listing a product on GeM catalogue, sellers must provide[14]:

Mandatory Information

Supporting Documentation

3.3 Catalogue Approval Process

The GeM system follows a quality assurance process[16]:

  1. Seller submits product data and supporting documents
  2. GeM team reviews completeness of information
  3. Technical validation of specifications
  4. Compliance check with government standards
  5. Approval or feedback (typically within 5-7 working days)
  6. Product goes live on catalogue upon approval
  7. Seller can monitor product views and inquiries in real-time

3.4 Catalogue Management Features

GeM provides sellers with advanced catalogue management tools[17]:

Real-time Analytics:

Bulk Operations:

Quality Control:

4. Tender Process on GeM Catalogue

4.1 Types of Tenders on GeM

GeM offers multiple tendering mechanisms for government procurement[19]:

4.2 Reverse Auction (RA) Mechanism

Reverse Auction is a powerful feature on GeM that drives competitive pricing[24]:

How Reverse Auction Works:

  1. Buyer publishes tender with specifications and reserve price
  2. Qualified sellers submit initial bids by deadline
  3. Top 50% of bids qualify for reverse auction
  4. During auction window, sellers can reduce prices in real-time
  5. Auction is transparent with live bidding updates
  6. Lowest qualified bid wins the contract[25]

Benefits of Reverse Auction:

4.3 Direct Buying vs Tender Process

Feature Direct Buying (Spot Purchase) Tender Process
Description Buyer directly purchases from listed catalogues Multiple bids collected and evaluated
Bidding Required No Yes
Suitable For Standard products with fixed prices Higher-value or customized products
Procurement Time Faster (24-48 hours) Longer (typically 7-30 days)
Pricing Quantity-based discounts often available Competitive pricing through bidding
Contract Immediate Formal contract execution[27][28]

4.4 Bid Submission and Evaluation

Technical Bid: Sellers must submit technical specifications matching buyer requirements[29]:

Financial Bid: Pricing details submitted separately[30]:

Evaluation Criteria:

4.5 Timeline for GeM Tenders

Typical tender timeline on GeM[32]:

Stage Duration
Tender publicationDay 1
Bid submission window7-14 days (varies by tender)
Technical evaluation2-5 days
Reverse auction (if applicable)1-2 days
Award announcement1-2 days
Contract execution3-5 days
Order fulfillmentAs per specified timeline

Table 2: Standard GeM Tender Timeline

5. Benefits of GeM Catalogue for Buyers

5.1 Government Buyers

Cost Advantages:

Operational Efficiency:

Quality Assurance:

Compliance and Transparency:

5.2 Individual and Institutional Buyers

Access to Quality Products:

Digital Convenience:

6. Benefits of GeM Catalogue for Sellers

6.1 Market Access

Government Procurement Opportunity:

Enhanced Visibility:

6.2 Growth Opportunities

MSME Support:

Scale Business:

Export Readiness:

6.3 Operational Benefits

Working Capital Improvement:

Business Intelligence:

Cost Reduction:

Note: This guide is informational and based on publicly described GeM processes as of 2026. For the most current rules, tender formats, and official procedures, always refer to the official GeM portal at gem.gov.in.

7. Product Listing Best Practices

7.1 Creating High-Quality Product Listings

Comprehensive Product Description:

Image Quality Standards:

Technical Specifications:

Pricing Strategy:

7.2 SEO Optimization for GeM Catalogue

Keyword Optimization:

Description Quality:

7.3 Seller Performance Metrics

GeM tracks and displays seller performance through[53]:

Rating Components:

  1. Order fulfillment rate (delivery on time)
  2. Product quality compliance
  3. Customer complaint resolution
  4. Return/rejection rate
  5. Payment term compliance
  6. Communication responsiveness

Impact of Ratings:

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General Questions

Q1: What is GeM Catalogue and who can use it?
A: GeM Catalogue is the product and service listing platform of Government e-Marketplace. Government ministries, departments, PSUs, and authorized institutions use it for procurement. Sellers must be registered on GeM to list products, and buyers need minimal verification[55].
Q2: Is there any cost to list products on GeM?
A: No, there is no listing fee or transaction fee on GeM. It is completely free for sellers to register and list products. However, GST applicable on your product price is collected by the buyer[56].
Q3: How long does it take for a product to be approved on GeM?
A: Typically, products are approved within 5-7 working days. Simple products with complete documentation may be approved in 2-3 days, while complex products may take up to 14 days[57].
Q4: Can I modify my product listing after approval?
A: Yes, you can update your product listings anytime. However, significant changes may require re-approval. Minor updates like price changes may be effective immediately[58].
Q5: What happens if my product is rejected?
A: GeM team provides feedback on rejection. Common reasons include incomplete specifications, poor image quality, or non-compliance with standards. You can address the feedback and resubmit within 30 days[59].

Seller-Specific Questions

Q6: Who can be a seller on GeM?
A: Any registered business entity (proprietor, partnership, company, cooperative, trust) with valid GST/PAN and business registration can be a seller. Additionally, Udyam-registered MSMEs are encouraged[60].
Q7: What documents are required for GeM registration?
A: Required documents typically include:
Q8: What is the difference between OEM, Reseller, and Service Provider roles?
A: Different quadrants have specific eligibility for each role[62].
Q9: Can I list the same product in multiple quadrants?
A: Each product should be listed in the appropriate quadrant based on your role and product characteristics. Duplicate listings across quadrants are not permitted and may result in de-listing[63].
Q10: How are payments processed on GeM?
A: GeM orders payment flow:
  1. Buyer places order (payment not required upfront)
  2. Seller delivers goods/services with invoice
  3. Buyer confirms receipt
  4. Automatic payment transfer to seller account (typically 7-14 days)
  5. Seller can track payment status in dashboard[64]

Buyer-Specific Questions

Q11: How do I search for products on GeM Catalogue?
A: Use the search bar with product name, category, or specifications. You can filter by seller rating, price range, delivery time, and certifications. Advanced search offers detailed filtering options[65].
Q12: Can I negotiate prices on GeM Catalogue?
A: For direct buying (spot purchase), prices are fixed. For tenders, you can invite bids and negotiate with sellers through the tender process or by contacting sellers directly for quotes[66].
Q13: What if I receive a defective product?
A: GeM has a dispute resolution mechanism. You can file a complaint with documentation. Sellers must resolve issues within specified timeframes. Unresolved disputes are escalated to GeM administration[67].
Q14: Are there guarantees and warranty terms on GeM products?
A: Yes, warranty terms are specified in each product listing. GeM maintains a dispute resolution fund for quality-related issues. Sellers must honor warranty obligations as listed[68].
Q15: How is GeM different from regular e-commerce platforms?
A:

Tender and Bidding Questions

Q16: What is a Reverse Auction on GeM?
A: Reverse Auction is a competitive bidding mechanism where sellers submit bids, and the top 50% are invited to a live auction. During the auction, sellers can reduce prices in real-time. The lowest qualifying bid wins. It typically achieves 15-30% cost savings[70].
Q17: How do I participate in GeM tenders?
A:
  1. Monitor tender notifications on your dashboard
  2. Review tender specifications and requirements
  3. Prepare technical bid matching specifications
  4. Submit both technical and financial bids by deadline
  5. Participate in evaluation and reverse auction (if applicable)
  6. Await award notification[71]
Q18: What is the difference between Open Bid and Limited Tender?
A:
Q19: Can I withdraw my bid after submission?
A: Bid withdrawal policies vary by tender. Generally, bids can be withdrawn before the bid deadline. After closure, withdrawal is typically not permitted unless grounds for bid rejection are discovered[73].
Q20: What happens after I win a tender?
A:
  1. Award letter issued
  2. Contract document prepared
  3. 30-day period to execute contract
  4. Supply as per agreed specifications and timeline
  5. Buyer inspection and acceptance
  6. Payment processing[74]

Technical and Compliance Questions

Q21: What are the quality standards required for GeM products?
A: Products must comply with relevant Indian Standards (IS), Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification, and government-mandated quality levels. Medical products need FSSAI or pharmacy board approval. Electronics need appropriate certifications[75].
Q22: Is GST applicable on GeM transactions?
A: Yes, GST is applicable as per normal business rules. The GST rate depends on the product category. Sellers should ensure correct GST registration and compliance[76].
Q23: How is seller performance measured on GeM?
A: Performance metrics include: These metrics affect seller visibility and trust ratings[77].
Q24: What happens if a seller doesn't comply with GeM norms?
A: Non-compliance consequences include:
Q25: How frequently should I update my product listings?
A: Recommendations:

Note: This is a comprehensive guide based on GeM processes and best practices as understood in 2026. Policies, timelines, and requirements may change. Always refer to the official GeM portal[](https://gem.gov.in) for the most accurate and up-to-date information, rules, and procedures.

9. Case Studies and Success Stories

Case Study 1: IT Equipment Supplier Success

Background: A Bangalore-based IT equipment manufacturer started on GeM with 5 products.

Results:

Case Study 2: MSME Furniture Maker

Background: A Delhi furniture workshop registered on GeM to expand beyond regional markets.

Results:

Case Study 3: Service Provider (Consulting Firm)

Background: An HR consulting firm leveraged GeM for government training contracts.

Results:

10. Future of GeM Catalogue 2026 and Beyond

10.1 Emerging Trends

10.2 Planned Enhancements

References

  1. Government of India, Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). Government e-Marketplace Official Portal. https://gem.gov.in
  2. Tata AIG Insurance. (2026, January 1). GeM Portal Categories Guide: Q1 to Q6 Explained Simply. https://www.tataaig.com/knowledge-center/sme-insurance/gem-portal-categories-and-their-classifications
  3. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). GeM Platform Statistics and Impact Report. Government e-Marketplace Official Records.
  4. Government of India. (2024). GeM Catalogue Management System 3.0. https://gem.gov.in/landing/index/Catalogue_Management
  5. TenderPlus. (2026, January 2). GeM Portal Products List - Catalog Management Services. https://tendersplus.com/product-service
  6. Government of India. (2024). GeM New Products & Services Categories. https://gem.gov.in/new-categories
  7. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). Medical and Healthcare Products on GeM. Government e-Marketplace Records.
  8. GeM Official Documentation. (2024). Automotive and Machinery Product Categories. Government e-Marketplace Archives.
  9. GeM Official Documentation. (2024). Manufacturing and Industrial Products Listing Guidelines. Government e-Marketplace Archives.
  10. Government of India. (2024). Services Category Management on GeM. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  11. ODOP Initiative Documentation. (2024). One District One Product Programme on GeM. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  12. Classic Tenders. (2025, October 15). Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Product Listing Guide for Sellers. https://classictenders.com/blogs/government-e-marketplace-gem-product-llisting-guide-for-sellers
  13. GeM Seller Resources. (2024). Profile Creation and Management Guidelines. Government e-Marketplace Official Documentation.
  14. GeM Catalogue. (2024). Product Data Entry Requirements and Standards. Government e-Marketplace.
  15. Classic Tenders. (2025). GeM Product Documentation and Certification Requirements. https://classictenders.com/blogs/government-e-marketplace-gem-product-llisting-guide-for-sellers
  16. Government of India. (2024). Catalogue Approval Process and Quality Assurance. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  17. GeM Seller Dashboard Documentation. (2024). Catalogue Management Tools and Features. Government e-Marketplace.
  18. TenderPlus Academy. (2025). SEO Optimization for GeM Product Listings. https://tendersplus.com/blogs
  19. TenderPlus. (2023, December 17). Mastering GeM Tender Bidding Process. https://tendersplus.com/blogs/gem-tender-bidding
  20. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Open Bid System Guidelines. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  21. GeM Tender Documentation. (2024). Limited Tender Process and Eligibility Criteria. Government e-Marketplace.
  22. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). Negotiated Tender Guidelines on GeM. Government e-Marketplace Official Records.
  23. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Two-Stage Tendering Process Documentation. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  24. GeM Reverse Auction Guidelines. (2024). Reverse Auction Mechanism and Implementation. Government e-Marketplace.
  25. Government of India. (2024). Reverse Auction Cost Savings Analysis Report 2024. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  26. GeM Impact Assessment. (2024). Benefits and Outcomes of Reverse Auction on Government Procurement. Official Records.
  27. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Direct Buying and Spot Purchase Guidelines. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  28. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). Tender Procurement Process Documentation. Government e-Marketplace Archives.
  29. GeM Tender Documentation. (2024). Technical Bid Submission Requirements. Government e-Marketplace.
  30. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Financial Bid Submission and Evaluation Criteria. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  31. GeM Evaluation Framework. (2024). Comprehensive Bid Evaluation Methodology. Official Government Records.
  32. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Standard Tender Timeline and Process Flow. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  33. GeM Impact Study. (2024). Cost Savings Analysis: Government Procurement on GeM. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  34. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). Operational Efficiency Metrics on GeM Platform. Government e-Marketplace Reports.
  35. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Quality Assurance and Compliance Framework. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  36. GeM Transparency Report. (2024). Audit Trail and Compliance Documentation. Official Records.
  37. Government of India. (2024). Buyer Benefits and Advantages on GeM Platform. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  38. GeM User Experience Report. (2024). Digital Convenience Features and Accessibility. Government e-Marketplace.
  39. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). Government Procurement Market Size and Opportunity. Official Statistics.
  40. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Seller Visibility and Market Reach Analysis. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  41. GeM Seller Support Programme. (2024). MSME Assistance and Benefits. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  42. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Scaling Business Opportunities on GeM. Official Seller Resources.
  43. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). Export Readiness Programme Through GeM. Government Records.
  44. GeM Payment and Financial Study. (2024). Working Capital Improvement Analysis. Official Documentation.
  45. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Business Intelligence Tools and Analytics Dashboard. Seller Resources.
  46. GeM Cost Analysis Study. (2024). Operational Cost Reduction for Sellers. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  47. Classic Tenders. (2025). Product Description Best Practices for GeM. https://classictenders.com/blogs/government-e-marketplace-gem-product-llisting-guide-for-sellers
  48. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Image Quality Standards and Guidelines. Official Seller Documentation.
  49. GeM Product Specifications. (2024). Technical Specifications and Certification Requirements. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  50. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Pricing Strategy and Transparency Guidelines. Seller Resources.
  51. TenderPlus Academy. (2025). SEO Best Practices for Government Procurement Platforms. https://tendersplus.com
  52. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Catalogue Description and Keyword Optimization. Seller Dashboard Documentation.
  53. GeM Performance Rating System. (2024). Seller Rating Components and Calculation. Official Records.
  54. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Impact of Performance Ratings on Seller Success. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  55. Government of India. (2024). GeM Catalogue Overview and Platform Features. https://gem.gov.in
  56. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). GeM Fee Structure and Cost Information. Official Documentation.
  57. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Product Approval Timeline and Process. Seller Resources.
  58. GeM Seller Resources. (2024). Product Listing Update and Modification Guidelines. Official Documentation.
  59. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Product Rejection Feedback and Resubmission Process. Official Records.
  60. Government of India. (2024). GeM Seller Eligibility and Registration Requirements. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  61. GeM Registration Documentation. (2024). Required Documents for Seller Registration. Official Archives.
  62. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). OEM, Reseller, and Service Provider Classification. Seller Resources.
  63. GeM Policy Framework. (2024). Multi-Quadrant Listing and Duplicate Policy. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  64. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Payment Processing and Settlement Mechanism. Official Records.
  65. GeM Buyer Portal Documentation. (2024). Product Search and Advanced Filtering Features. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  66. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Price Negotiation and Quote Request Process. Buyer Resources.
  67. GeM Dispute Resolution. (2024). Quality Complaint and Resolution Mechanism. Official Documentation.
  68. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Warranty and Guarantee Policies on GeM. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  69. Government of India. (2024). GeM Differentiation from Regular E-Commerce Platforms. Official Press Releases.
  70. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Reverse Auction Mechanism and Implementation Guide. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  71. GeM Tender Participation Guide. (2024). Step-by-Step Bidding Process. Seller Resources.
  72. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Open vs Limited Tender Comparison. Official Documentation.
  73. GeM Tender Rules. (2024). Bid Withdrawal Policies and Procedures. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  74. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Post-Award Process and Contract Execution. Official Records.
  75. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). Quality Standards and Certification Requirements on GeM. Government Records.
  76. GST Compliance on GeM. (2024). Goods and Services Tax Guidelines for Sellers. Official Documentation.
  77. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Seller Performance Measurement and Rating System. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  78. GeM Compliance Framework. (2024). Non-Compliance Consequences and Penalties. Official Policy.
  79. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Catalogue Maintenance and Update Best Practices. Seller Resources.
  80. GeM Success Stories. (2024). Case Study: IT Equipment Supplier Growth on GeM. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  81. GeM MSME Success Programme. (2024). Case Study: Furniture Manufacturing Business Growth. Official Records.
  82. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Case Study: Service Provider Success on GeM. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  83. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). GeM Future Roadmap: AI Integration Plans. Government Records.
  84. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Supply Chain Integration and Automation Plans. Official Strategic Documents.
  85. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). New Product Categories and Market Expansion Plans. Government Archives.
  86. GeM Technical Roadmap. (2024). Mobile-First Platform Development Plan. Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
  87. Government e-Marketplace. (2024). Analytics and Business Intelligence Development. Technical Records.
  88. Ministry of Commerce & Industry. (2024). Global Expansion and International Integration Plans. Official Strategic Documents.

End of Guide
This comprehensive guide to the GeM Catalogue 2026 is prepared for informational purposes based on official sources, portal data, and reports as of January 2026. GeM continues to evolve rapidly (e.g., GMV exceeding тВ╣5 lakh crore in FY 2024-25, strong MSME participation). For the absolute latest rules, statistics, registration, tenders, or procedures, always visit the official portal at https://gem.gov.in.

ЁЯУЮ Call Now ЁЯТм WhatsApp Us
Last Updated: 27/05/2025 ┬й Gem Online Portal. All Rights Reserved