v2.4.0.6
Goodwill (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2010
Goodwill    
Balance, beginning of period $ 934 $ 427
Goodwill acquired 75 454
Reallocation of acquired goodwill (5) (4)
Impairment   (3)
Tax benefit on goodwill amortization (7) (7)
Foreign exchange translation (104) 67
Balance, end of period 893 934
Agribusiness
    
Goodwill    
Balance, beginning of period 215 204
Goodwill acquired 34 9
Reallocation of acquired goodwill (5)  
Tax benefit on goodwill amortization (7) (6)
Foreign exchange translation (21) 8
Balance, end of period 216 215
Sugar and Bioenergy
    
Goodwill    
Balance, beginning of period 631 130
Goodwill acquired   440
Foreign exchange translation (71) 61
Balance, end of period 560 631
Edible oil products
    
Goodwill    
Balance, beginning of period 80 83
Goodwill acquired 41 4
Reallocation of acquired goodwill   (4)
Tax benefit on goodwill amortization   (1)
Foreign exchange translation (11) (2)
Balance, end of period 110 80
Milling products
    
Goodwill    
Balance, beginning of period 7 10
Impairment   (3)
Foreign exchange translation (1)  
Balance, end of period 6 7
Fertilizer
    
Goodwill    
Goodwill acquired   1
Balance, end of period $ 1 $ 1