Sasol (SSL) is planning to revitalize its international chemical business, including its $12.8 billion Lake Charles facility in Louisiana, as part of efforts to boost earnings and potentially set the stage for a future listing, Bloomberg reported Friday, citing an interview with Chief Executive Simon Baloyi.

Baloyi said the Lake Charles chemicals complex could play a vital role in generating cash and increasing investor confidence, according to the report.

The facility, which was initially intended to expand Sasol's international footprint, faced issues such as mismanagement, hurricanes, and significant cost overruns, contributing to the company's debt of around $4 billion, the report said.

The company separated its international chemical business from its South African operations and is working to increase its earnings contribution, Bloomberg said, adding that while chemicals currently account for a third of Sasol's earnings, the US region contributes only 6%.

(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)