Mormugao Port Revival to Boost Goa’s Industries

The reinstatement of container services at Mormugao Port is set to streamline logistics, cut costs, and open new avenues for Goa’s industries, particularly its thriving pharmaceutical sector, said State Transport and Industries Minister Mauvin Godinho on Thursday. Speaking at Trade Meet 2025, organized to strategize the port’s revival, Godinho highlighted its potential to transform Goa into a competitive industrial hub.

“Mormugao Port is a natural resource that must be fully utilized,” Godinho asserted during the conclave, hosted by Delta Ports Mormugao Terminal Pvt Ltd in collaboration with the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) and supported by the Goa Industrial Development Corporation (Goa-IDC). He noted that Goa, despite its small size, accounts for over 8% of global pharmaceutical production. “With upgraded infrastructure, including cranes and handling equipment, MPA is taking the right steps to re-establish the port as a competitive hub,” he added, emphasizing the benefits for industries reliant on efficient logistics.

Goa-IDC chairperson Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco underscored the critical role of logistics in driving industrial growth, while MPA deputy chairperson Vinayak Rao highlighted the port’s recovery trajectory. Operational since 1885, Mormugao has faced challenges, including a mining ban, but is now poised for resurgence. Goa-IDC managing director Pravimal Abhishek noted that the container terminal would eliminate the need for industries to transport cargo to distant ports like JNPT in Navi Mumbai, significantly reducing costs.

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Delta Ports managing director Shamil Ahmed reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering world-class facilities under its 30-year concession agreement with MPA. The port’s strategic location and enhanced infrastructure, including a draft depth of 14.1 meters and modern container-handling capabilities, position it to handle increased cargo volumes, particularly for pharmaceuticals, cashew exports, and other local industries. Recent data indicates Mormugao handled 1.2 million tonnes of cargo in 2024-25, with container services expected to double this capacity by 2027.

The revival aligns with Goa’s broader economic goals, with the state aiming to leverage its 3.5% contribution to India’s GDP through improved port connectivity. Stakeholders at the conclave called for continued investment in rail and road linkages to maximize the port’s impact, signaling a promising future for Goa’s industrial landscape.

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