SHENZHEN's Huawei Technologies said revenue rose sharply in the first half of the year despite a US export blacklisting, but the telecommunications giant signalled tougher times ahead as it copes with uncertainty around its access to US technology, reports the Wall Street Journal. The company said year-on-year first half revenue rose 23 per cent to CNY401.3 billion (US$58.3 billion). But Huawei said it face obstacles to securing certain crucial technology. The company and sees challenges ahead for its once-booming consumer products operation, including its popular smartphone business, it said.