Which FAR Part includes criteria for contractor debarment?

The criteria for contractor debarment is located in FAR Part 9, which deals specifically with contractor qualifications. This part outlines various aspects of the federal procurement process associated with a contractor's ability to participate in federal contracts, including the basis for debarment and the procedures that govern it. Debarment serves as a tool to ensure that the government avoids engaging with contractors who may have demonstrated unethical behavior or a lack of reliability in previous contractual obligations.

FAR Part 9 lays the groundwork for determining the qualifications of contractors and includes provisions for suspending or debaring them when necessary, to protect the government's interests. Therefore, this part is essential in maintaining integrity and accountability in federal contracting practices. Other parts, such as FAR Part 13 (Simplified Acquisition Procedures), Part 7 (Acquisition Planning), and Part 12 (Acquisition of Commercial Items), do not specifically address debarment criteria, making Part 9 the relevant segment of the FAR.