How to List Products on GeM for the First Time
A beginner-friendly guide for businesses entering government sales
If you have already registered as a seller on GeM, the next big step is listing your products or services correctly.
This is where many first-time sellers struggle — not because GeM is difficult, but because small mistakes can lead to rejection, low visibility, or zero orders.
This blog explains how to list products on GeM for the first time, in simple business language.
What Does “Listing” Mean on GeM?
On Government e-Marketplace (GeM), listing means:
Creating a digital catalog entry so that government buyers can see, compare, and purchase what you offer.
Unlike Amazon or Flipkart:
- You cannot write anything freely.
- You must follow predefined categories, specifications, and formats.
- Accuracy matters more than marketing language.
Step-by-Step: How to List a Product on GeM
Step 1: Choose the Correct Category
GeM has fixed product categories.
Example:
- Laptop → Not “Electronics” → but Laptop Computers (the nomenclature has to be as per GeM)
- LED TV → Not “Display” → but Television Display Units (the nomenclature has to be as per GeM)
❗ The category name has to be as per nomenclature of categories on GeM. You can refer to GeM
category names on https://tendermanagers.com/resources/gem-categories
Tip: Always search existing products and see where similar items are listed.
Step 2: Match Specifications Exactly
GeM listings are specification-driven, not description-driven.
You must:
- Select predefined specs (size, capacity, rating, etc.)
- Avoid guessing or approximating
- Ensure specs match your actual product datasheet
❗ If specs don’t match the supplied item later → penalty risk.
Step 3: Upload Correct Product Images
Images must:
- Be clear and professional
- Match the listed product exactly
- Avoid watermarks, logos, promotional banners
Bad images reduce buyer trust and ranking.
Step 4: Pricing Your Product (Very Important)
Pricing is one of the biggest beginner mistakes.
Keep in mind:
- Government buyers compare prices instantly
- Overpricing = no visibility
- Underpricing = losses or L1 pressure
Beginner Tip:
Check:
- Existing L1 prices
- Past order prices
- Market parity
GeM is competitive, not premium retail.
Step 5: Submit for Review
After submission:
- GeM reviews the listing
- It may be approved, sent back, or rejected
Rejections are common for first-timers — don’t panic. Need help with listings on GeM, feel free to explore our services – https://tendermanagers.com/subscription-pricing