The restriction in section 225.7023-2 does not apply to acquisitions—

(a) Of covered items for use outside of the United States;

(b) At or below $150,000; or

(c)(1) If the head of the contracting activity determines that a covered item of satisfactory quality and quantity, in the required form, cannot be procured as and when needed from nations other than a covered country to meet requirements at a reasonable price.

(2) The contracting officer shall include a copy of any such determination in the contract file.