If you want to:

• Apply for government tenders

• Supply goods or services to municipalities

• Do business with state-owned entities

You must register on the Central Supplier Database (CSD).

Without CSD registration, you cannot legally supply government.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you register correctly.

What Is the Central Supplier Database (CSD)?

The CSD is an online supplier registration system managed by the
National Treasury

It stores and verifies supplier information for:

• National departments

• Provincial governments

• Municipalities

• Public entities

It automatically integrates with:

• South African Revenue Service (SARS)

• Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC)

This ensures suppliers are compliant before doing business with government.

Who Must Register on CSD?

You must register if you are:

✔ A Pty Ltd company
✔ A sole proprietor
✔ A partnership
✔ A non-profit supplying government
✔ A cooperative

If you plan to submit a tender — CSD registration is mandatory.

Documents & Information You’ll Need

Before starting, prepare:

• Company registration number (if applicable)

• Director/owner ID numbers

• Tax reference number

• Bank account details

• Contact details (email & phone number)

• B-BBEE certificate or affidavit (if available)

Having everything ready speeds up the process.

Step-by-Step: How to Register on CSD

Step 1: Visit the Official CSD Website

Go to the official Central Supplier Database portal.

 Make sure you are on the official government site to avoid scams.

Step 2: Create an Account

• Register as a supplier

• Enter your email address

• Create login credentials

You will receive a verification email.

Step 3: Add Supplier Information

Fill in:

• Business type

• Registration number

• Income tax number

• VAT number (if registered)

• Director/owner details

Ensure all information matches CIPC and SARS records.

Step 4: Add Banking Details

You must enter:

• Bank name

• Account number

• Branch code

Your bank account will be verified electronically.

Important: The account must be in the business name (for companies).

Step 5: Confirm Tax Compliance

The system automatically checks your tax status with SARS.

If your tax status is non-compliant:

• Your CSD profile will reflect this

• You may be disqualified from tenders

Make sure your tax affairs are up to date.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Once all sections are complete:

✔ Submit
✔ Wait for verification
✔ Receive your CSD registration number

Approval usually takes a few days if all information is correct.

What Happens After Registration?

You will receive:

• A unique CSD number

• A supplier summary report

• Compliance confirmation

You can now use this number when:

• Applying for tenders

• Registering on procurement portals

• Submitting supplier forms

Is CSD Registration Free?

Yes.

Registration on the Central Supplier Database is completely free.

Be cautious of service providers charging high fees for basic registration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using incorrect tax numbers
❌ Entering mismatched banking details
❌ Not updating director changes
❌ Waiting until a tender deadline to register
❌ Ignoring non-compliant tax status

Always keep your profile updated.

How to Keep Your CSD Profile Active

✔ Update changes in directors
✔ Update banking changes
✔ Keep tax compliance active
✔ Renew B-BBEE documents annually

Inactive or outdated profiles can lead to tender disqualification.

Final Thoughts

If your business wants to work with government in South Africa, CSD registration is non-negotiable.

It ensures:

✔ Verified compliance
✔ Secure payment processing
✔ Eligibility for tenders
✔ Access to public sector opportunities

Register early — not when a tender is closing.

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