Social media networking service, Facebook, announced the launch of Facebook Marketplace in Sri Lanka, a feature that allow app uses to discover, buy and sell items from others in their local communities. 

Facebook Director of Emerging Markets, APAC Jordi Fornies said that the feature was launched as users were observed to be increasingly shopping online during the Covid-10 pandemic.

“We are excited to launch Facebook Marketplace which offers a convenient way for Sri Lankans to buy and sell. We hope this new platform will make it easier for people to find the items they need and make additional income during these difficult times,” said Fronies in a statement announcing the feature availability.

Facebook Marketplace can be accessed in the app via the Marketplace icon in the Facebook app or by visiting fb.com/marketplace. The feature allows users to browse listings that interest them and filter them by distance or category. The search box can be used to find exactly what they are looking for. 

To list in the Marketplace, sellers can share a photo of an item, enter a product name, description and price, confirm their location and select a category.

While users can also choose to post their listings to Facebook Buy and Sell Groups, interested buyers can find the item they are looking for and message the sellers directly through Messenger. The payment method can be decided be by the buyer depending on their own preferences. 

Facebook advises all buyers and sellers to follow local guidelines to stay safe and help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Buyers and sellers can find tips on how to use Marketplace responsibly and access the Help Center for more information.