v2.4.0.6
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2010
Dec. 31, 2009
Dec. 31, 2008
Allowances for doubtful accounts
      
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves      
Balance at beginning of period $ 350 $ 291 $ 285
Charged to costs and expenses 58 75 95
Charged to other accounts 3 84 (46)
Deductions from reserves (111) (100) (43)
Balance at end of period 300 350 291
Allowance for secured advances to suppliers
      
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves      
Balance at beginning of period 75 37 52
Charged to costs and expenses 17 21 33
Charged to other accounts 3 17 (14)
Deductions from reserves (8)   (34)
Balance at end of period 87 75 37
Allowances for recoverable taxes
      
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves      
Balance at beginning of period 164 104 135
Charged to costs and expenses 20 34 20
Charged to other accounts (20) 31 (37)
Deductions from reserves (46) (5) (14)
Balance at end of period 118 164 104
Deductions from reserves - sale of nutrients assets 39    
Income tax valuation allowance
      
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves      
Balance at beginning of period 116 94 33
Charged to costs and expenses 128 50 47
Charged to other accounts 1 5 14
Deductions from reserves   (33)  
Balance at end of period $ 245 $ 116 $ 94