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Principal joint ventures - Reconciliation of financial information for joint ventures by carrying value (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2019 | Dec. 31, 2018
--- | --- | ---
Disclosure of joint ventures [line items] |  |
Net assets/(liabilities) | $ 45,242 | $ 49,823
Minera Escondida Limitada [Member] |  |
Disclosure of joint ventures [line items] |  |
Net assets/(liabilities) | 8,203 | 9,343
Group's ownership interest | 2,461 | 2,803
Other adjustments | 0 | 0
Carrying value of Group's interest | 2,461 | 2,803
Sohar Aluminium Co. L.L.C. |  |
Disclosure of joint ventures [line items] |  |
Net assets/(liabilities) | 2,285 | 2,240
Group's ownership interest | 457 | 448
Other adjustments | 0 | (1)
Carrying value of Group's interest | $ 457 | $ 447

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