Mekong Watch, Friends of the Earth (FoE) Japan, and Justice for Myanmar (JFM) have been calling for Japanese investors in the project to ensure that revenues do not flow to the Myanmar military and avoid adverse human rights and environmental impacts. The Japanese investors include the Japanese government, JX Nippon Oil & Gas Exploration (a wholly-owned subsidiary of ENEOS Holdings), and Mitsubishi Corporation.

On 25 March, it was reported that ENEOS reportedly decided to withdraw from the Yetagun gas project. The Japanese government was also reportedly planning a withdrawal. The move came after Mitsubishi Corporation said in February they were divesting from the project.

"Though much too late," Mekong Watch, FoE Japan, and JFM cautiously welcomed this move. However, CSOs said concerns remain "whether the disengagement will be conducted in a responsible manner". They again urged the Japanese government, ENEOS, and Mitsubishi Corporation to exit responsibly from the project, highlighting none of the Japanese investors have taken specific measures or disclosed any information about ensuring that revenue from the project will not flow to the military.

Business and Human Rights Resource Centre invited ENEOS and Mitsubishi Corporation to respond to the alleged matter. Both responses are provided below.