A key development in the maritime trade sector is underway as Russia’s Delo Group has initiated discussions to establish a direct container shipping route between Novorossiysk Port in Russia and Mormugao Port in Goa. The announcement was made by Sergey Shishkarev, CEO of the Delo Group, during the Russia Transport 2025 Forum, indicating growing strategic interest in strengthening trade connectivity with India’s western coast.
The proposal has revived interest in restarting container operations at Mormugao Port, which discontinued such services several years ago but retains operational readiness. According to Delo Group, infrastructure could be efficiently restored to support modern container logistics.
Economic Significance for Goa
Goa, one of India’s highest-income states with a per-capita GDP (PPP) of around USD 50,000, is seeking diversified trade opportunities beyond tourism. A direct route could significantly improve access to European and Eurasian markets while reducing dependency on logistic routes through Mumbai.
The state’s urban concentration (around 80% of the population) and industrial potential provide a strategic platform for expanding high-value export operations, including pharmaceuticals, agro-products, minerals, and specialized manufacturing.
Growing Russia–Goa Tourism and Commercial Links
Goa has seen a notable rise in international visitors, particularly from Russia and Central Asia. Direct flight services from cities such as Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk and Almaty have reinforced tourism and cultural exchange.
In October 2025 alone, more than 34 charter flights from these regions arrived in Goa.
The proposed shipping connection could support logistics for tourism-linked industries, including hospitality, food supplies, and consumer goods.
Strategic Logistics and Trade Advantages
A shipping stop at Mormugao is considered operationally efficient as the port lies roughly 270 nautical miles south of Mumbai, on a major maritime corridor of western India.
The Delo Group controls a wide transport and logistics network including:
- Marine container terminals across multiple basins in Russia
- Intermodal container operator TransContainer
- Multimodal transport company Ruscon
- Cargo terminals operated by Global Ports
This network enables comprehensive end-to-end logistics capability, creating potential for a long-term trade pathway.
Historical and Cultural Context
Goa, formerly under Portuguese administration until 1987, retains a unique cultural identity and remains a global tourism destination known for its beaches, architecture, and hospitality industry. The introduction of direct shipping may expand its economic profile beyond tourism and mining, positioning Goa as a strategic trade hub on India’s west coast.
Future Outlook
If formalized, the shipping route could create:
- Reduced logistics time and cost for exporters
- Increased bilateral trade value
- Revived port container operations
- New business opportunities in manufacturing and logistics
- Connectivity benefits aligned with expanding India-Russia cooperation
Further official consultations and feasibility assessments are expected in coming months.
