v2.4.0.6

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
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Dec. 31, 2011 M Y mill division segment | Dec. 31, 2010 mill | Dec. 31, 2009
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies |  |  |
Number of operating divisions | 4 |  |
Number of operating divisions reportable segments | 5 |  |
Number of sugar mills in Brazil | 8 |  |
Number of sugar mills acquired in 2010 |  | 5 |
Maximum percentage ownership for interests reported as noncontrolling interest in subsidiaries | 100.00% |  |
Cash and cash equivalents investments maximum maturity period (in months) | 3 |  |
Research and development expenses | $ 22 | $ 24 | $ 26
Maximum period of commodity contracts for sale of agricultural commodity | one future crop cycle |  |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets |  |  |
Estimated useful life, finite-lived intangible assets, minimum (in years) | 2 |  |
Estimated useful life, finite-lived intangible assets, maximum (in years) | 50 |  |
Buildings |  |  |
Property, Plant and Equipment |  |  |
Estimated useful lives, Minimum (in years) | 10 |  |
Estimated useful lives, Maximum (in years) | 50 |  |
Machinery and equipment |  |  |
Property, Plant and Equipment |  |  |
Estimated useful lives, Minimum (in years) | 7 |  |
Estimated useful lives, Maximum (in years) | 20 |  |
Furniture, fixtures and other |  |  |
Property, Plant and Equipment |  |  |
Estimated useful lives, Minimum (in years) | 3 |  |
Estimated useful lives, Maximum (in years) | 20 |  |
Biological assets |  |  |
Property, Plant and Equipment |  |  |
Estimated useful lives, Minimum (in years) | 1 |  |
Estimated useful lives, Maximum (in years) | 6 |  |

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