According to JiJi Press, Japanese glass substrate maker Asahi Glass announced plans to sell Optrex, its loss-making business unit dedicated to manufacturing small- and mid-sized LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panels. Asahi Glass plans to sell its entire 60% stake in Optrex, valued at between 10 billion (US$87.5 million; US$1 = 114.3 Yen) and 20 billion Yen (US$175.0 million). Mitsubishi, which holds the remaining 40%, is expected to sell its stake as well. Following the exit from LCD panel production, Asahi Glass will concentrate on the production of LCD glass substrates and other key materials for electronic components, according to the same report. Asahi Glass is expected to decide on a buyer by October 2007.