What past performance means
Past performance is a bid condition that asks you to show you have already supplied the same or similar items before — so the buyer knows you can deliver at the bid's scale. It is separate from years in business and from turnover, although bids often ask for all three. If the bid does not set a past performance condition, you do not need to prove it.
How it is usually worded
A typical clause asks that the bidder (or the OEM) has supplied the same or similar category of product, of at least a stated percentage of the bid quantity, in at least one of the last few financial years before the bid opening, to government bodies, PSUs or other specified buyers. The percentage, the number of years, what counts as "similar" and which buyers qualify are all in the bid — read the clause word by word.
Documents that prove it
- ✓Copies of contracts or purchase orders for the same or similar items
- ✓Invoices showing the quantity actually supplied
- ✓Completion or performance certificates from the buyer where available
- ✓GeM contracts from earlier orders, which are already on record
Bidder's experience or OEM's?
Some bids let a reseller rely on the OEM's past performance; others require the bidder's own. The clause says who must have the experience. If it says "bidder/OEM", either is usually acceptable, but upload proof that clearly matches the item and quantity.
Exemption for MSEs and startups
Many bids exempt MSEs and DPIIT-recognised startups from experience and turnover criteria, subject to them meeting quality and technical specifications. Whether the exemption applies is stated in the bid, and buyers can remove it for specific reasons. To claim it, your Udyam or DPIIT certificate must be valid and, for MSEs, cover the item.
If you do not yet have past performance
- ✓Look for bids where MSE/startup exemption applies, or where no past performance is asked
- ✓Win smaller direct-purchase and L1-purchase orders through a strong catalogue — they build a record
- ✓Consider products whose OEM's experience can be used, where the bid allows it
- ✓Keep every contract and invoice organised so you can prove experience quickly later
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Frequently asked questions
What is past performance in a GeM tender?
It is a condition that the bidder or OEM has already supplied a stated quantity of the same or similar items in a recent period. The exact percentage and period are in the bid.
Can MSEs bid without past performance?
Often yes — many bids exempt MSEs and startups from experience and turnover criteria. Check the exemption line in the bid; it can be withdrawn for specific bids.
Do GeM orders count as past performance?
Orders executed on GeM are valid evidence of supply, provided the items and quantities meet what the bid asks for.
What counts as a "similar" item for past performance?
The bid defines it. Usually it means the same or a closely related category of product or service; if the definition is unclear, ask through the bid's query process before the deadline.
Do private-sector orders count?
Only if the bid accepts them. Many clauses name government bodies, PSUs and some other buyers; read the list in the clause.
Related guides
Rules change. Always confirm the details in the bid document and on gem.gov.in before you bid. · Updated 2026-11-02
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