🧾 Central Supplier Database (CSD) Registration Guide

Introduction

The Central Supplier Database (CSD) is the official government supplier database used by all national, provincial and local government departments in South Africa. It consolidates supplier information in one place to simplify procurement, eliminate duplication, and make it easier for businesses and entrepreneurs to tender for government contracts.

Registration on the CSD is free, electronic and mandatory for any supplier who intends to do business with government. Once registered, your business gets a unique CSD supplier number required for tender applications, bid submissions and supplier verification.

📍 What Is the CSD?

The Central Supplier Database (CSD):

✔ Is a single source of official supplier information for all South African government institutions.
✔ Eliminates repetitive paperwork by centralising supplier data.
✔ Verifies supplier details with agencies like SARS, CIPC and bank validations.
✔ Is required before you can tender or supply government. (Central Supplier Database)

📋 Who Should Register?

You SHOULD register on the CSD if your business plans to:

Tender for government contracts
Supply goods and services to organs of state
Be listed on ETenders, the government tender portal
Be verified as a legitimate government supplier

🧑‍💻 Step-by-Step: How to Register on the CSD

Here’s how to complete your CSD registration correctly and efficiently:

1. Prepare Required Information

Before starting, make sure you have the following:

✔ A valid email address
✔ Cellphone number
✔ Identity number (South African) or foreign ID/passport
✔ Company details (CIPC registration)
✔ Bank account details (bank name, branch code, account number)
✔ Tax information (valid tax number from SARS)
✔ Information on company owners/directors/partners

Note: The CSD also allows foreign suppliers to register with a foreign ID/passport.

2. Visit the Official CSD Portal

Go to the official Central Supplier Database website:
➡️ https://secure.csd.gov.za/Home/

3. Create a User Account

Click Register → Choose South African Supplier or Foreign Supplier → Enter personal details like your name, email and cellphone number.
You’ll also set a password and choose security questions.

Pro Tip: Use a business email you check regularly — you’ll receive activation links and CSD notifications to this address.

4. Accept Terms & Conditions

Before proceeding, you must accept the CSD’s Terms & Conditions which govern access and use of the database.

5. Complete the Supplier Profile

After creating your account:

Supplier Type & Company Details: Enter your CIPC registration number, legal entity type and turnover.
Contact & Address: Provide your business address, email and contact numbers.
Bank Account Info: Enter bank account holder name, account number and branch code (ensure these are accurate).
Tax Details: Enter your SARS tax number and whether you are VAT registered.

Tip: Double-check that company name, tax number and banking information match what’s on your company documents — mismatches can cause verification delays.

6. Add Commodities & Industry Classification

Indicate what goods or services your business supplies using the CSD’s commodity codes. This helps government buyers find you for relevant opportunities.

7. Final Submission

Once all sections are complete, verify all information and click Submit.

After submitting:

✔ The system will verify your details against SARS, CIPC, and other databases.
✔ You will receive a CSD Supplier Number upon successful verification.
✔ Government departments will then be able to find your business for procurement opportunities.

📌 After Registration – Best Practices

✅ Update Your Profile Regularly: Keep all details current — especially your contact info and banking.
✅ Download Your Confirmation: Save or print your CSD registration summary for tender submissions.
✅ Use Your CSD Number on Tenders: Always include it when submitting bids or proposals.
✅ Annual Review: Update and confirm your information at least once a year.

❗ Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Incomplete profiles (missing tax or bank details)
❌ Mismatched information with CIPC or SARS records
❌ Not using an active email address for activation and notifications
❌ Assuming successful submission means instant approval — verification takes time

📞 Need Help?

If you experience issues during or after registration, you can contact the National Treasury CSD support team:

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📌 Why CSD Registration Matters

Government only awards contracts to registered suppliers. Without a valid CSD number and status, your business cannot submit tenders or be considered for government procurement.

By following this guide, your business will be correctly registered and positioned to access government tender opportunities across South Africa.