What type of acquisitions does FAR Part 12 deal with?

FAR Part 12 specifically focuses on the acquisition of commercial items. This part of the FAR was established to streamline the procurement process for goods and services that are widely available in the commercial marketplace. The intent is to encourage competition, reduce barriers for businesses, particularly small businesses, and promote efficiency in the procurement process.

Commercial items are defined broadly and encompass a range of products and services that are sold in the commercial marketplace and typically used by the general public. The regulations outlined in FAR Part 12 provide guidelines and procedures on how to acquire these items, including simplified acquisition methods, which can lead to quicker and more efficient contract awards.

The other options, while part of broader procurement practices, do not relate specifically to the focus of FAR Part 12. For instance, emergency acquisitions are governed by FAR Part 18, which deals with urgent needs; sealed bidding is covered in FAR Part 14, which pertains to formal procurement methods; and contracting by negotiation falls under FAR Part 15, focused on more complex acquisitions that require discussions and negotiations.