Sharp said on Friday its second-quarter operating profit slipped 18.3 percent, following a consumption tax increase in Japan that squeezed sales of electronic parts, TVs and white goods. Sharp's consolidated financial results for the six months recorded net sales of 1,327.6 billion yen, down 1.1% compared to the same period in the previous year, and operating income of 29.2 billion yen, down 13.6%.

Net income was 4.7 billion yen, an improvement from a loss of 4.3 billion yen.

But Sharp reiterated its full-year operating profit forecast of 100 billion yen, saying earnings from its growing liquid-crystal display (LCD) panels business more than tripled in the first half of the year amid increasing orders from Chinese smartphone makers.

As for the future, Sharp Group will try to expand sales of large-size and high-definition LCD TVs, and launch original smartphones and tablets through collaborations with mobile phone operators. The company will also boost sales in overseas markets, focusing in particular on ASEAN, which is the priority region.

Also, Sharp aims to expedite transition into an energy solutions provider offering not only solar modules and storage batteries but also design, construction, and maintenance, thus covering a wide-ranging supply chain. In addition, it will strengthen service and solution business through a combination of MFPs and display equipment.

Sharp will work to develop its customer base for small-and medium-size LCDs by commercializing MEMS-IGZO displays, Free-Form displays, and 8K full-spec LCDs at the earliest possible date.

In addition, Sharp will focus on healthcare/medical services, robotics, smart home/mobility/office, safety and security of food/water/air, and education.