The Metric Conversion Act of 1975, as amended by the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 (15 U.S.C. 205a, et. seq. ), requires Federal agencies to establish implementing guidelines pursuant to metric policy to adopt the metric system as the preferred system of weights and measurements for United States trade and commerce. In addition, Executive Order 12770 promoted the use of the metric system in contracting, grants, and other business-related activities except to the extent that such use is impractical or is likely to cause significant inefficiencies or loss of markets to U.S. firms
The metric system provides substantial advantages to the Federal Government in its operations and in the Department of State’s unique international mission and environment.
For further explanation, see Department of State Acquisition Regulation (DOSAR), Part 611 – Describing Agency Needs or contact the Office of the Procurement Executive (703) 516-1684.
