Thai firm PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP) has begun an environmental impact assessment (EIA) at the M9 offshore block. An article in the Myanmar Times said that the firm is conducting the EIA to ensure “there is minimal impact on the site before work begins”. The EIA could take up to 12 months to complete. It will include inputs from non-governmental organizations as well as local industry players, including fisheries. PTTEP also said that public meetings will be held in order to hear from opposition voices. In January, it was reported that PTTEP is planning to spend US$ 3.3 billion this year for its exploration activities in Myanmar. PTTEP is a subsidiary of Thai PTT Public Company.