A controversial government online shopping and shipping service is up and running.

People can sign up for MyBermudaPost, created by the Post Office in a public-private partnership deal with US-based courier company MyUS, on the Government’s website.

The website said subscribers would be provided with a US mailing address.

They can shop online at US retailers and store their purchases for up to 30 days free of charge.

The website added: “Registration is completely free. You will get a US shipping address from day one and be able to start shopping right away.

“You will receive a message to notify you as soon as we receive your shipment and we will also inform you about all offers and sales seasons in the USA.

“With MyBermudaPost, you have amazing flexibility in delivery options. You will be able to store up to 12 personal delivery addresses on your account, giving you maximum flexibility in the destination of your purchases when ordering.

“All MyBermudaPost members receive our world-class customer service and free home delivery. Our prices are very competitive.”

Wayne Furbert, the minister for the Cabinet Office, said last year that people would benefit by being able to import goods at cheap rates.

But store owners condemned the scheme and insisted it would harm the on-island retail sector and that the Government should encourage people to “buy Bermuda”.

Mr Furbert also came under fire from courier firms, who questioned why the partnership deal had not been put out to tender so Bermudian firms could have put in bids for the work.

One firm, Mailboxes Unlimited, which also owns and operates a courier company in New Jersey, has petitioned the courts for an order to force the Government to release details of its contract with MyUS, which is based in Florida.

A government spokeswoman did not respond to questions yesterday on whether the new service had proved popular.