What vendor assessment is
Vendor assessment is a check that an OEM on GeM really manufactures what it lists — that it has the premises, machinery, people and processes for those products. GeM has it carried out by an assessing agency, the Quality Council of India (QCI). The aim is to keep traders who pose as manufacturers out of categories where buyers expect a genuine OEM.
Who needs it
It applies to OEMs (brand owners/manufacturers) in the product categories where GeM has made it mandatory, and the list of such categories is shown on GeM. Resellers do not go through vendor assessment themselves, but they can sell only the products of OEMs that meet the requirements of the category. If you are unsure whether your category needs it, GeM shows it when you try to list a product or brand.
How the process generally runs
- ✓Apply from your GeM seller account and pay the applicable assessment fee (fee concessions may apply to some categories of sellers; check the current fee schedule)
- ✓Submit documents about your company, premises, manufacturing process and products
- ✓The agency reviews documents and schedules an inspection of the manufacturing site (in some cases a video or remote assessment)
- ✓Any observations have to be closed within the time given
- ✓On success, the assessment status is updated on GeM and is valid for a fixed period, after which it must be renewed
Documents to prepare
The exact list is on the application form; typically it covers:
- ✓Proof of the manufacturing premises (ownership or lease)
- ✓Factory licence, pollution or other statutory approvals that apply to your industry
- ✓List of machinery and testing equipment, with photographs
- ✓Manpower details and organisation chart
- ✓Raw material purchase invoices and sales invoices for the products
- ✓Product certifications (BIS, ISO, etc.) where relevant
Preparing for the factory inspection
The assessor will want to see the products being made, not just stored. Make sure production is running or can be demonstrated, records match what you submitted, and someone who knows the process is present. Keep the machines, testing equipment and stock you declared available to be seen.
Common reasons for failure
- ✓Declared machinery or capacity not found at the site
- ✓Products shown are traded, not manufactured
- ✓Documents in a different name or address from the GeM profile
- ✓Observations not closed within the time given
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Frequently asked questions
Is vendor assessment mandatory for all GeM sellers?
No. It applies to OEMs in the categories where GeM has made it mandatory. Resellers do not undergo it themselves.
Who conducts vendor assessment for GeM?
It is carried out by an assessing agency for GeM, the Quality Council of India (QCI).
What is the vendor assessment fee and validity?
The fee, any concessions and the validity period are set by GeM and have changed over time. Check the current schedule in your GeM seller account or on gem.gov.in.
Do I need vendor assessment before listing products?
In categories where it is mandatory, the OEM needs a valid vendor assessment before its products can be offered. GeM indicates this during listing.
What happens when vendor assessment expires?
It must be renewed before it lapses; otherwise products in categories that require it may be affected until the renewal is complete.
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