Inventories (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Inventories
Leaf tobacco	$ 319	$ 230
Manufactured stock	91	43
Materials and supplies	6	4
Inventories	416	277
Inventories (Textual) [Abstract]
Excess of average cost over stated value of inventories valued on a LIFO Basis	238	223
Manufactured stock determined on a first-in, first-out	$ 29

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The amount of FIFO (first in first out) inventory present at the reporting date when inventory is also valued using different valuation methods.

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Amount before last-in first-out (LIFO) and valuation reserves of merchandise or goods held by the entity that are readily available for sale.

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Reflects the difference between (a) inventory at the lower of LIFO cost or market and (b) inventory at replacement cost or at the lower of some acceptable inventory accounting method (such as FIFO or average cost), or market. If material, reflects an excess of replacement or current cost over stated LIFO value parenthetically on the balance sheet or in a note to the financial statements.

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Carrying amount (lower of cost or market) as of the balance sheet date of inventories less all valuation and other allowances. Excludes noncurrent inventory balances (expected to remain on hand past one year or one operating cycle, if longer).

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Gross amount of unprocessed items to be consumed in the manufacturing or production process. Also includes purchased parts that will be used as components of a finished product.

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Gross amount of products used directly or indirectly in the manufacturing or production process, which may or may not become part of the final product. May also include items used in the storage, presentation or transportation of physical goods.

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