How to Get Your First GeM Order

Listing in a crowded category and waiting for organic orders

GeM has no algorithm that boosts new sellers. If you list in a category with 100+ sellers at market price, you are on page 7 of search results. No government buyer goes to page 7. Category selection is not optional: it is the primary determinant of whether you get any orders in your first 90 days.

Setting a high launch price with plans to lower it later

GeM stores your price history. A listing at ₹2,000 that drops to ₹1,200 three weeks later looks like the original price was inflated. Some buyers avoid such listings on principle. Set a competitive price from day one. You can always increase it gradually once you have established ratings and repeat buyers.

Ignoring the GeM messaging feature

Most new sellers wait passively for orders to arrive. GeM messaging lets you reach buyers who have already demonstrated they buy your product type. One targeted message to 10 relevant buyers generates more first orders than 60 days of passive listing. Use the feature.

Taking an order you cannot fulfil at the listed price

If your supplier price has gone up since you listed, or if you listed speculatively without confirmed inventory, do not accept the order. Cancelling an accepted GeM order flags your account and can trigger suspension. Only accept orders you can fulfil profitably at the listed price.

How long does it typically take to get a first GeM order after registration?

There is no fixed timeline. Sellers in underpopulated categories with competitive prices have received orders within 2–3 weeks of listing approval. Sellers in crowded categories with market-rate prices sometimes wait months. The variable is category selection and price positioning, not time on the platform.

Can I message a government buyer directly on GeM to introduce my product?

Yes. GeM has a messaging feature that allows sellers to contact buyers who have previously posted bids or placed orders in your category. This is one of the fastest ways to get your first order: buyers who already needed your product type are more likely to order from a new seller they have spoken with than from a cold listing.

Should I take a low-margin first GeM order just to build my rating?

Yes, within reason. Your first completed GeM order creates a buyer rating, which significantly improves your position in future bids, especially Custom Bids where buyers filter by experience. Taking one order at 5–10% below your normal margin to build this track record is a reasonable investment. Do not take orders below your cost of supply.

What is an underpopulated GeM category and how do I find one?

An underpopulated category is one with fewer than 10–15 active sellers. To find one, search for your product on gem.gov.in as a buyer and count the active listings. Categories with fewer sellers mean less price competition and higher odds of being on the first page. If your product could legitimately fit two categories, list in the one with fewer sellers.

Do ratings from completed orders actually help on GeM?

Yes, in two ways. For catalogue orders, buyers can filter by seller rating: a 4.5+ rating puts you ahead of unrated competitors even at a slightly higher price. For Custom Bids and service contracts, buyers explicitly check your order history and ratings before awarding contracts. Your first 3–5 completed orders are the hardest to win and the most valuable to your long-term GeM success.

My product category has 200+ sellers. Should I still list on GeM?

List if you can price competitively and your listing is complete. In crowded categories, buyers often sort by price and stop at the first 10 listings. If your price cannot be in the bottom 20% of the category, your chances of organic orders are low. Consider targeting a sub-category or a product variant with fewer listings instead.