Russia’s Delo Group explores direct container link between Novorossiysk and Goa

Delo Group, one of Russia’s largest transport and logistics operators, is in discussions to establish a direct container shipping service between Novorossiysk Port on the Black Sea and Mormugao Port in Goa. The update was shared by Delo Group CEO Sergei Shishkarev during the Transport of Russia 2025 forum.

Although Mormugao Port has not handled containers for several years, Shishkarev noted that the necessary infrastructure is still in place and could be restored to support renewed container operations. Goa, despite being one of India’s smallest states by area and population—around 1.6 million—has one of the country’s highest GDP per capita levels and a largely urban demographic, with nearly 80% of residents living in towns and cities. Its strong hospitality and tourism sector, marked by a concentration of luxury resorts and beaches, adds to its commercial appeal.

The state has also seen a surge in international tourist arrivals, especially from Russia and Central Asia. Direct charter flights now connect Goa with cities such as Ekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, and Moscow, with 34 charter operations recorded in October 2025 alone. These travel links have deepened Goa’s popularity among Russian travellers, a trend that Delo aims to support by offering improved maritime connectivity. The proposed sea link would also help Goan exporters gain easier access to Russian markets.

Goa stands out culturally within India, having been under Portuguese rule until 1987. The state retains a distinct identity, with strong Christian influences, unique cuisine and architecture, and some of the country’s most renowned beaches.

Delo Group’s portfolio spans container terminals across Russia’s Azov-Black Sea, Baltic and Far Eastern regions, along with an extensive network of inland rail terminals, container fleets and well cars. Its logistics operations include intermodal operator TransContainer and multimodal service provider Ruscon, while its stevedoring activities are handled through DeloPorts and Global Ports, one of the region’s leading container terminal operators.