What is FAR 52.244-5?

FAR 52.244-5 (Competition in Subcontracting.) is a federal acquisition regulation clause that may be included in government contracts. It falls under the subcontracting category.

When is FAR 52.244-5 required?

FAR 52.244-5 is typically required when the contracting officer determines it's applicable to the specific procurement. Check the solicitation's Section I for included clauses.

Does FAR 52.244-5 flow down to subcontractors?

Whether FAR 52.244-5 flows down depends on the specific clause language and contract type. Review the clause text for flow-down provisions.

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52.244-5 — Competition in Subcontracting.

Last updated: 2026-04

Researched by the BidStride Research Team

What This Clause Requires

FAR 52.244-5 — Competition in Subcontracting.. This clause is part of the Federal Acquisition Regulation and may be included in government contracts as a solicitation provision or contract clause.

Official Regulation Text

52.244-5 Competition in Subcontracting. As prescribed in 44.204(c), insert the following clause: Competition in Subcontracting (AUG 2024) (a) The Contractor shall select subcontractors (including suppliers) on a competitive basis to the maximum practical extent consistent with the objectives and requirements of the contract. (b) If the Contractor is an approved mentor under the DoD Mentor-Protégé Program (10 U.S.C. 4902), the Contractor may award subcontracts under this contract on a noncompetitive basis to its protégés. (End of clause) [48 FR 42478, Sept. 19, 1983, as amended at 60 FR 34762, July 3, 1995; 61 FR 2638, Jan. 26, 1996; 61 FR 67420, Dec. 20, 1996; 63 FR 34062, June 22, 1998; 89 FR 61339, July 30, 2024]
Source: eCFR, 48 CFR 52.244-5 (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-48/section-52.244-5)

Compliance Checklist

As prescribed in 44.204(c), insert the following clause: Competition in Subcontracting (AUG 2024) (a) The Contractor shall select subcontractors (including suppliers) on a competitive basis to the maximum practical extent consistent with the objectives and requirements of the contract.

Flow-Down to Subcontractors

Flow-down required

This clause must be included in subcontracts with no subcontractors where the subcontractor will perform work covered by this clause. Typically appears in contract Section Section I.

Frequently Asked Questions

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This summary is for informational purposes only and reflects the BidStride Research Team's plain-English interpretation of the regulation. It is not legal advice and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Always consult the official Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) or Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) text and qualified legal counsel for compliance decisions.