Abono Complementacao Defined Benefit Plan [Member] Abono Complementao Plan Represents the Abono Complementacao defined benefit plan. Remuneration on Common Convertible Debt, Net Of Tax Remuneration attributed to common convertible notes The after-tax amount of remuneration recognized in the period associated with common convertible debt. Average cost of derivative transactions (as a percent) Average Cost of Derivative Transactions The average cost on all derivative transactions. Account receivable written-off Accounts Receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Write-off The amount of decrease during the period to the valuation allowance account representing portions of such account associated with accounts receivable that have been determined to be absolutely uncollectible or that were sold or transferred, and which receivables were simultaneously written off. Accounts Receivable Denominate in other Currencies [Member] Denominated in other currencies, mainly US dollars Represents the information pertaining to accounts receivable which are denominated in other currencies, mainly US dollars. Accounts Receivable Denominated in Brazilian Reais [Member] Denominated in Brazilian Reais Represents the information pertaining to accounts receivable which are denominated in Brazilian Reais. Accounts Receivable Related Unrelated Parties Amount due from customers or clients, both related and unrelated parties, within one year of the balance sheet date (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer), for goods or services (including trade receivables) that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business, reduced to the estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of collection. Total Accrued Charges, Current Accrued charges, current Represents the current accrued charges. Accrued Charges, Noncurrent Accrued charges, noncurrent Represents the noncurrent accrued charges. Accrued charges Active Participants [Member] Active participants Represents the information pertaining to active participants in the defined benefit plan. Amendment Description Additional Bank Guarantees Outstanding Additional financial assurance issued by VINL, outstanding in additional bank guarantees Additional bank guarantees outstanding as of the balance sheet date. Amendment Flag Additional Interest Paid Additional interest paid to holders of the mandatorily convertible notes (in dollars per note) Additional interest paid to holders of the mandatorily convertible notes. Additional Letter of Credit Issued Letters of credit issued and outstanding pursuant to syndicate revolving credit facility Additional letters of credit issued and outstanding, pursuant to syndicate revolving credit facility, as of the balance sheet date. Additional Letter of Credit Outstanding Additional letters of credit issued and outstanding Additional letters of credit outstanding as of the balance sheet date. Additional Minimum Remuneration Paid Amount Additional minimum remuneration paid to holders of the mandatorily convertible notes Represents the additional minimum remuneration paid to holders of the mandatorily convertible notes. Additional Remuneration, Paid Additional remuneration paid. Additional remuneration paid to holders of the mandatorily convertible notes Additional Remuneration Paid to Holders of Mandatorily Convertible Notes Remuneration paid to holders of mandatorily convertible notes Represents the remuneration paid to holders of mandatorily convertible notes. Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital Conversion of Debt Represents the difference between the conversion amount and the book value of the treasury stock used in the conversion of debt. Adjustments in additional paid in capital related to note conversion Aggregate Letters of Credit Issued During Period for Seven Shipments of Nickel Concentrate Aggregate letters of credit issued during period for seven shipments of nickel concentrate Represents the aggregate amount of letters of credit issued during period for seven shipments of nickel concentrate. Railway Sub-Concession Agreement Payable, Current Liabilities Railway sub-concession agreement payable Current portion of the amount entered with Government for the exploitation and development of public rail cargo transport services. Allowance for Ore Weight Credits, Current [Member] Allowance for ore weight credits A valuation allowance for ore weight credits due to an entity within one year (or one operating cycle if longer) that are expected to be uncollectible. Aluminium [Member] Aluminium. Aluminum Aluminium Aluminum Products Revenue from the sale of aluminum products. Aluminum products Aluminum products. Aluminum products. Aluminum Products [Member] Represents America, excluding the United States. America, except United States America Excluding United States [Member] Announced public offer Represents a public offer announced by the entity. Announced Public Offer [Member] Accounts Receivable, Gross, Noncurrent Unrelated parties Represents the appreciation or devaluation of currency. Appreciation (devaluation) of Real against US dollar (in rates) Appreciation or Devaluation of Currency Current Fiscal Year End Date Appropriation to undistributed retained earnings Appropriation from to undistributed retained earnings. Appropriation from (to) Undistributed Retained Earnings Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Unrelated parties Total Approval of Dividend Distributed Amount of additional dividends distributed Represents the payment of additional dividend approved by the board of directors. Approval of Minimum Dividend Approval of second tranche of the minimum dividend Represents the payment of second tranche of the minimum dividend approved by the board of directors. Approval of Payments for Distribution to Shareholders Approval of payments to shareholders Represents the aggregate amount approved by the Board of Directors for payment to shareholders. Approval of Payments for Distribution to Shareholders as Dividend Approval of dividends on capital Represents the aggregate amount approved by Board of Directors for payment of dividends to shareholders. Approval of Payments for Distribution to Shareholders as Interest Approval of interest on capital Represents the aggregate amount approved by board of directors for payment of interest on capital to shareholders. Approval of Payments for Distribution to Shareholders as Interest Per Outstanding Share Approval of interest on capital per outstanding share (in dollars per share) Represents the per outstanding share approved by board of directors for payment of interest on capital to shareholders. Approval of Payments for Distribution to Shareholders as Divided Per Outstanding Share Represents the per outstanding share approved by board of directors for payment of dividends on capital to shareholders. Approval of dividends on capital per outstanding share (in dollars per share) Represents the Asia market, excluding Japan and China. Asia, other than Japan and China Asia Market Excluding Japan and China [Member] Assets and liabilities held for sale. Assets and liabilities held for sale Assets and Liabilities Held-for-sale Assets and Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Non-current assets and liabilities CANADA Canada Document Period End Date Assets and Liabilities Realizable Due Long Term The period threshold of classifying assets and liabilities as long-term. All assets and liabilities that are realizable or due over this period are classified as long-term. Minimum period that assets and liabilities are either realizable or due to be classified as non-current (in months) Assets Given as Guarantee for Judicial Processes Represents the amount of assets which are given in guarantee with the courts for loss contingencies. These assets are guaranteed by the entity following court requirements in order to be entitled to either initiate or continue a legal action. These assets are released to the entity upon receipt of a final favorable outcome from the legal action, and in the case of an unfavorable outcome, the assets are not released until payment is made to the prevailing party. Assets given in guarantee of judicial processes AUD floating rate vs. fixed USD rate swap. AUD floating rate vs. fixed USD rate swap Aud Floating Rate Versus Fixed Usd Rate Swap [Member] BNDES Participacoes SA [Member] BNDES Participacoes S.A Represents the information pertaining to BNDES Participacoes S.A, being a related party. Banco Bradesco SA [Member] Banco Bradesco S.A. Represents the information pertaining to Banco Bradesco S.A., being a related party. Banco Nacional De Desenvolvimento Economico Social Equipment Finance [Member] Represents a credit agreement with Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Economico Social for purposes of financing the acquisition of equipment. BNDES - equipment finance Banco Nacional De Desenvolvimento Economico Social Project Finance [Member] BNDES - CLN 150 Mtyp project finance Represents a credit agreement with Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Economico Social for purposes of financing the implementation of CLN 150 Mtypy project. Represents a credit agreement with Banco Nacional De Desenvolvimento Economico Social purposes of financing the entity's investment program. BNDES - investment program Banco Nacional De Desenvolvimento Economico Social Investment [Member] Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Economico Social. Banco Nacional De Desenvolvimento Economico Social Banco Nacional De Desenvolvimento Economico Social [Member] Entity [Domain] Banco Nacional De Desevolvimento Social and BNDES Participacoes SA [Member] Banco Nacional de Desevolvimento Social and BNDES Participacoes S.A Represents the information pertaining to Banco Nacional de Desevolvimento Social and BNDES Participacoes S.A, being related parties. CHINA China Banco Nacional de Desevolvimento Social Represents the information pertaining to Banco Nacional de Desevolvimento Social, being a related party. Banco Nacional De Desevolvimento Social [Member] Bank Guarantee [Member] Bank Guarantee. Bank Guarantee Bank Guarantee Number Number of bank guarantees Number of bank guarantees. Banks Syndicate [Member] Banks Syndicate. Syndicate of financial institutions Bilateral Pre Export Finance Agreement [Member] Bilateral Pre-Export Finance Agreement Represents bilateral Pre-export finance agreement. Represents Baovale Mineracao SA - BAOVALE, an equity method investee. Baovale Mineracao SA - BAOVALE Baovale Mineracao SABAOVALE [Member] Baovale Mineracao SA Base Metals [Member] Represents the operating segment of the entity, Base metals. Base Metals Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings per share Basis of presentation Basis Of Presentation [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy regarding the basis of presentation of the consolidated financial statements and the accounting policy for the translation of transactions denominated in a currency other than the reporting currency. Basis of presentation Bauxite. Bauxite Bauxite [Member] Bay Development Agreement [Member] Bay Development Agreement. Bay Development Agreement Board of Directors, Fiscal Council, Advisory committees and Executive Officers Board of Directors Fiscal Council Advisory Committees and Executive Officers Disclosure [Text Block] Board of Directors, Fiscal Council, Advisory committees and Executive Officers This element represents Board of Directors, Fiscal Council, Advisory committees and Executive Officers. Book Value of Assets, Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net of Cash Acquired Book value of other assets acquired and liabilities assumed, net The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to other assets acquired and liabilities assumed, net. Book Value of Property, Plant and Equipment and Mining Rights Book value of property, plant and equipment and mining rights The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to property, plant, equipment and mining rights. Bulk Material [Member] Represents the operating segment of the entity, Bulk Material. Bulk Material Bunker Oil [Member] Bunker Oil. Bunker Oil Represents the aggregate amount of investment made as of the balance sheet date. Business Acquisition, Amount Invested Amount invested for business acquisition Business Acquisition, Common Stock, Shares Acquired, Percentage Estimated total disbursement as a percentage of common shares (as a percent) Represents the percentage of outstanding common shares of the acquiree which the entity may acquire. Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquisition through Public Offer Amount Total amount paid to acquire free floating shares Represents the amount paid to acquire both common and preferred stock through public offer. Represents the estimated value of investment. Business Acquisition, Estimated Investment Total estimated investment Business Acquisition Percentage of Capital Acquired Business acquisition percentage of total capital acquired Business acquisition percentage of capital acquired. Business Acquisition, Percentage of Capital Acquired Initial Business Acquisition Percentage Of Capital Acquired Initial. Percentage of equity capital acquired Represents the percentage of free float of the subsidiary to be acquired through public offer. Business Acquisition, Percentage of Free Float of Subsidiary to be Acquired through Public Offer Percentage of free float to be acquired through public offer (as a percent) Business Acquisition, Preferred Stock, Shares Acquired, Percentage Estimated total disbursement as a percentage of preferred shares (as a percent) Represents the percentage of outstanding preferred shares of the acquiree which the entity may acquire. Business Acquisition, Public Offer Price Per Share Public offer to acquire the free floating shares of Vale Fertilizantes S.A. (in BRL per share) Represents the per share cash price under public offer for both common and preferred stock. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Per Share Purchase price (in ZAR per share) Represents the purchase price per share to be paid for acquisition of business. Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Deferred Taxes Deferred taxes on the above adjustments This element represents the amount of deferred taxes related to any measurement period adjustment (as defined) realized during the reporting period in connection with a business combination for which the initial accounting was incomplete. Business Combinations and Goodwill [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for completed business combinations under the purchase method. Also includes disclosure of the accounting policy for goodwill which consists of how an entity assesses and measures impairment of goodwill, how reporting units are determined, how goodwill is allocated to such units, and how the fair values of the reporting units are determined. Business combinations Represents California Steel Industries Inc - CSI, an equity method investee. California Steel Industries Inc - CSI California Steel Industries Inc CSI [Member] Canada Government Securities [Member] Securities of the government of Canada Represents the investments in securities issued by the Government of Canada. Capacity of Ore Carrier Represents the capacity of ore carrier. Capacity of ore carrier (in dwt) Capacity of Plant Plant capacity (in tonnes per year) Represents the per year capacity of fourth pellet plant. Capitalization of Stockholders Advances Capitalization of stockholders advances Capitalization of stockholders advances Cash and Cash Equivalents and Short-term Investments [Abstract] Cash equivalents and short-term investments Cash and Cash Equivalents and Short-term Investments [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments including the policy for determining which items are treated as cash equivalents and short-term investments. Cash equivalents and short-term investments Cash Equivalents Original Maturity Period Maximum Represents the maximum original maturity period of investments classified as cash equivalents. Maximum original maturity period to classify instruments as cash equivalents (in days) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Intangible assets, accumulated Depreciation Cash Paid During Period for [Abstract] Cash paid during the period for: Cash Receivable from Sale of Business, Affiliate and Productive Assets Cash receivable under sale of business Represents the amount of cash receivable from the sale of business. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other cumulative comprehensive loss Cash Received During the Period for [Abstract] Cash received during the period for: CDI & TJLP vs. floating and fixed swap. CDI & TJLP vs. USD fixed and floating rate swap Cdi and Tjlp Versus Usd Fixed and Floating Swap [Member] Certificate of Deposit [Member] CDI Details pertaining to CDI. Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated Depreciation Civil Claims [Member] Civil claims. Civil claims Coal. Coal Coal [Member] Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Represents a credit agreement with some commercial banks that is guaranteed by an Italian credit bureau. Commercial Banks guaranteed by Italian credit bureau Commercial Banks [Member] Entity Voluntary Filers Common convertible notes. Common Convertible notes Common Convertible Notes [Member] Entity Current Reporting Status Common Shares Acquired Common shares acquired Common shares acquired in pursuant with share buy-back program approved by the board of directors. Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Entity Filer Category Common stock Common stock Dividends and interest attributed to stockholders equity. Common Stock Dividends and Interest Attributed to Stockholders Equity Entity Public Float Common stock Common stock Interest on mandatorily convertible debt. Common Stock Interest on Mandatorily Convertible Debt Entity Registrant Name Common Stockholders Minimum Dividend Percentage Mandatory minimum dividend of annual adjusted net income under Brazilian GAAP, Common stockholders (as a percent) Common stockholders minimum dividend Percentage. Entity Central Index Key Represents Companhia Coreano-Brasileira de Pelotizacao - KOBRASCO, an equity method investee. Companhia Coreano-Brasileira de Pelotizacao - KOBRASCO Companhia Coreano Brasileira De Pelotizacao KOBRASCO [Member] Represents Companhia Hispano-Brasileira de Pelotizacao - HISPANOBRAS, an equity method investee. Companhia Hispano-Brasileira de Pelotizacao - HISPANOBRAS Companhia Hispano Brasileira De Pelotizacao HISPANOBRAS [Member] Represents Companhia Italo-Brasileira de Pelotizacao - ITABRASCO, an equity method investee. Companhia Italo-Brasileira de Pelotizacao - ITABRASCO CompanhiaItalo Brasileira De Pelotizacao ITABRASCO [Member] INDONESIA Indonesia Represents Companhia Nipo-Brasileira de Pelotizacao - NIBRASCO, an equity method investee. Companhia Nipo-Brasileira de Pelotizacao - NIBRASCO Companhia Nipo Brasileira De Pelotizacao NIBRASCO [Member] Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Companhia Siderurgica Do PECEM [Member] Represents the details pertaining to Companhia Siderurgica do PECEM. Companhia Siderurgica do PECEMCSP - CSP Compania Minera Miski Mayo S.A.C. Represents Compania Minera Misky Mayo S.A.C., a subsidiary of the entity. Compania Minera Miski Mayo S.A.C. [Member] Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Acquisition (sale) of subsidiaries Contingencies Settled and Recognized Provision [Abstract] Contingencies settled and recognized provisions Contract Termination Payment Guarantee [Member] Contract Termination Payment Guarantee. Contract Termination Payment Guarantee Conversions, shares Conversion shares. Conversion Shares Rio and Rio P Member. Rio and Rio P Convertible Note Rio and Rio P [Member] Mandatorily convertible notes, series Rio. Rio Convertible Note Rio [Member] Mandatorily convertible notes, series Rio P. Rio P Convertible Note Rio P [Member] Mandatorily convertible notes, series Vale - 2012. Vale - 2012 Convertible Note Vale 2012 [Member] Mandatorily convertible notes, series Vale and Vale P - 2012. Vale and Vale P - 2012 Convertible Note Vale and Vale P 2012 [Member] Mandatorily convertible notes, series Vale P - 2012. Vale P - 2012 Convertible Note Vale P 2012 [Member] Copper Concentrate Inventory Copper concentrate Represents copper concentrate inventory. Copper Concentrate [Member] Copper concentrate. Copper concentrate Copper. Copper Copper [Member] Cost of aluminum products Cost of Aluminum Products Costs incurred related to the aluminum production. JAPAN Japan Cost of Fertilizer Products Costs incurred related to the fertilizer production. Cost of fertilizer products Cost of Logistic Services Costs incurred related to the logistic services. Cost of logistic services Document Fiscal Year Focus Represents the credit agreement entered in to by the company with certain commercial banks. Agreement with commercial banks Credit Agreement with Commercial Banks [Member] Document Fiscal Period Focus Represents the information pertaining to derivative contracts which are entered for customer raw material contracts. Customer raw material contracts Customer Raw Material Contracts [Member] Customers [Abstract] Customers Debentures Debentures Titles issued at the time of Vale privatization, to ensure its then-existing stockholders would participate in possible future benefits that could be obtained from exploiting certain mineral resources. Debentures [Abstract] Debentures Debentures Remuneration Paid Debentures remuneration paid Represents the remuneration paid on debentures. Debt in Basket of Currencies, Current Basket of currencies, current Represents the basket of currencies classified as current. Debt in Basket of Currencies, Noncurrent Basket of currencies, noncurrent Represents the basket of currencies classified as noncurrent. Debt in Us Currencies, Current US dollars denominated, current Represents US dollars denominated debt classified as current. Debt in Us Currencies, Noncurrent US dollars denominated, noncurrent Represents US dollars denominated debt classified as noncurrent. Debt Indexed to General Price Index, Current Brazilian Reais indexed to General Price Index-Market (IGPM), current Represents Brazilian Reais indexed to General Price Index-Market (IGPM), classified as current. Debt Indexed to General Price Index, Noncurrent Brazilian Reais indexed to General Price Index-Market (IGPM), noncurrent Represents Brazilian Reais indexed to General Price Index-Market (IGPM), classified as noncurrent. Legal Entity [Axis] Debt Indexed to Long-term Interest Rate and General Price Index, Current Represents Brazilian Reais indexed to Long-term Interest Rate - TJLP/CDI and General Price Index-Market (IGPM), classified as current. Brazilian Reais indexed to Long-term Interest Rate - TJLP/CDI and General Price Index-Market (IGP-M), current Document Type Debt Indexed to Long-term Interest Rate and General Price Index, Noncurrent Represents Brazilian Reais indexed to Long-term Interest Rate - TJLP/CDI and General Price Index-Market (IGPM), classified as noncurrent. Brazilian Reais indexed to Long-Term Interest Rate - TJLP/CDI and General Price Index-Market (IGP-M) noncurrent Debt Indexed to Long-term Interest Rate, Current Brazilian Reais indexed to Long-term Interest Rate - TJLP/CDI, current Represents Brazilian Reais indexed to Long-term Interest Rate - TJLP/CDI, classified as current. Debt Indexed to Long-term Interest Rate, Noncurrent Brazilian Reais indexed to Long-term Interest Rate - TJLP/CDI, noncurrent Represents Brazilian Reais indexed to Long-term Interest Rate - TJLP/CDI, classified as noncurrent. Debt Instrument Convertible Equity Instruments Value The value of equity instruments that the holder of the debt instrument would receive if the debt was converted to equity. Maximum amount of action, Value Represents the face amount of the debt after consolidation with other debt. Principal amount of debt after consolidation with Vale Overseas debt Debt Instrument, Face Amount after Consolidation with Other Debt TJLP - Long-Term Interest Rate (effective rate as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percent Effective interest rate during the period for the funds borrowed under the debt agreement considering the compounded interest and the original issue discount or premium. Debt Instrument Issue Price as Percentage of Face Value Sale price of bonds as percentage of face value Represents the sale price of bonds as percentage of face value. Debt Instrument, Variable Rate Base [Axis] Debt Instrument, Variable Rate Base [Domain] Debt Liability Disposed under Sale of Business, Affiliate and Productive Assets Net debt liability disposed under sale of business Represents the amount of net debt liability disposed under sale of business. Debt securities, current Debt Securities, Current Represents the carrying value as of the balance sheet date of debt securities, which are due within one year. Additional Paid in Capital Additional paid-in capital Debt Securities, Noncurrent Debt securities, noncurrent Represents the carrying value as of the balance sheet date of debt securities, which are due in the next twelve months or greater than the normal operating cycle. Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Gross Noncurrent Total Liabilities Represents the non-current portion of deferred tax liabilities, which result from applying the applicable tax rate to taxable temporary differences without netting them by tax jurisdiction and taxable entity. A current taxable temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis and the carrying amount of a current asset or liability in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. In a classified statement of financial position, an enterprise separates deferred tax liabilities into a current amount and a noncurrent amount. Deferred tax liabilities are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense Reserves and Accruals, Provision for Losses and Write-downs of Investments [Abstract] Related to provision for losses and write-downs of investments Deferred Tax Liabilities, Fair Value Adjustments in Business Combinations Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date for deferred tax consequences attributable to taxable temporary differences resulting from fair value adjustments in business combinations. Deferred tax consequences are future tax effects on income taxes as measured by the applicable enacted tax rate and provisions of the enacted tax law resulting from temporary differences and carryforwards. Fair value adjustments in business combinations Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation [Abstract] Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income after Tax [Abstract] Other Cumulative Comprehensive Income (Deficit) The tax effects on net gain (loss), prior service cost (credit), and transition assets (obligations), as well as minimum pension liability if still remaining, included in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan(s) because they are yet to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Deferred Income Tax Deferred income tax Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Effect of Exchange Rate, Changes before Tax Effect of exchange rate changes Represents the effect of exchange rate changes that has not been recognized in the net periodic benefit cost. This amount is pretax. Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Changes Assumptions changes The amount of increase in the benefit obligation due to change in assumptions. The inflation rate assumptions used in calculating the net periodic benefit cost. Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Inflation Rate Inflation (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase after Forty Seven Years Rate of compensation increase - over 47 years (as a percent) Expected rate of compensation increases after forty seven years (for pay-related plans). Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase up to Forty Seven Years Rate of compensation increase - up to 47 years (as a percent) Expected rate of compensation increases upto forty seven years (for pay-related plans). Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used for Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost Rate of Compensation Increase Threshold Age Threshold age (in years) The threshold age for calculation of expected rate of compensation increase (for pay-related plans). Defined Benefit Plan, Average Age of Participants Average age - years Represents the average age of the participants covered under the defined benefit plan. Defined Benefit Plan, Average Nominal Return, Percentage Average nominal return (as a percent) Represents the average nominal return from plan assets. Defined Benefit Plan, Average Nominal Return, Term Average nominal return term (in years) Represents the period over which average nominal return from plan assets is achieved. Defined Benefit Plan, Average Service of Participants Average service - years Represents the average service period of the participants covered under the defined benefit plan. Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Initial Recognized Consolidation Benefit initial recognized consolidation The amount of increase in the benefit obligation due to initial recognized consolidation. Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Plan Transfers Transfers The amount of increase or decrease in the benefit obligation due to transfers between plans during the reporting period. Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Deferred Income Tax Deferred income tax at beginning of period Represents the tax effects relating to changes in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with pension and postretirement benefit plans. Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Transfers Transfers Represents the net amount of transfers relating to changes in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with pension and postretirement benefit plans. Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan, Assets Benefits Paid Benefits paid/ Actual distribution Changes in the fair value of plan assets for defined benefit plans due to benefits paid. Defined Benefit Plan, Currency Exposure Hedge Percentage Developed currency's exposure hedge (as a percent) Represents the percentage of currency exposure hedged under the defined benefit plan. Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Gross Total The total of the fair value of plan asset categories including adjustment for funds not related to risk plans. Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Initial Recognized Consolidation Fair value initial recognized consolidation The amount of increase in the fair value of plan assets due to initial recognized consolidation. Initial recognized consolidation of Fosfertil Defined Benefit Plan, Funds not Related to Risk Plans Funds not related to risk plans Represents the amount of funds not related to risk plans. Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost, Trend Rate Health care cost trend rate (as a percent) The trend rate for health care costs. Defined Benefit Plan, Initial Health Care Cost, Trend Rate Initial Health care cost trend rate (as a percent) The initial trend rate for health care costs. Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost, Benefit Obligation Interest cost Change in benefit obligation in d defined benefit pension Plan's or defined benefit postretirement plans. Defined Benefit Plan, Minimum Percentage of Employees who Decided to Migrate to New Pension Plan Minimum percentage of active employees who decided to migrate to the new pension plan Represents the minimum percentage of active employees who decided to migrate to the new pension plan. Defined Benefit Plan, Number of Asset Classes Number of asset classes Represents the number of asset classes in which the entity is allowed to invest. Depreciation Depreciation in the year Defined Benefit Plan, Number of Employees Number of employees under the defined benefit plan Represents the number of employees under the defined benefit plan. Defined Benefit Plan, Number of Employees Receiving Supplemental Retirement and Pension Number of employees receiving supplemental retirement and pension Represents the number of employees receiving supplemental retirement and pension under the defined benefit plan. Defined Benefit Plan, Number of Investments Committees Number of Investments Committees that approves Investment Policy Statements Represents the number of investment committees that approves Investment Policy Statements. Defined Benefit Plan, Number of Options of Asset Classes Mix Number of options of asset classes mix Represents the number of options of asset classes mix available under the plan. Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Dividends received Defined Benefit Plan, Number of Participants Number Represents the number of participants in the defined benefit plan. Defined Benefit Plan, Old Plan [Member] Old Plan Represents the Defined Benefit Plan (the "Old Plan") of the entity. Defined Benefit Plan, Percentage of Employees who Decided to Migrate to New Pension Plan Percentage of active employees who decided to migrate to the new pension plan Represents the percentage of active employees who decided to migrate to the new pension plan. Defined Benefit Plan, Plan, Assets Plan, Transfers The amount of increase or decrease in the plan assets due to transfers between plans during the reporting period. Transfers Defined Benefit Plan, Summary of Participant Data [Table Text Block] Summary of participant data Tabular disclosure of participant data like number of participants, average age and average service by class of participants and type of benefit plans. Defined Benefit Plan, Summary of Participants Data [Abstract] Summary of participant data Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan, Asset Allocations Target allocation (as a percent) Target allocation of investments of this type to total plan assets presented on a weighted average basis. Defined Benefit Plan, Target Return, Percentage Return target (as a percent) Represents the percentage of target return expected from plan assets. Defined Benefit Plan, Target Return Percentage in Next Fiscal Year Return target in 2012 (as a percent) Represents the percentage of target return expected from plan assets in next fiscal year. Defined Benefit Plans, Name of Plans [Axis] Represents the details of defined benefit plan by name of plan. Defined Benefit Plans, Name of Plans [Domain] Category of defined benefit plan by plan name. Defined Benefit Plans, Plan Participants [Axis] Information categorized by type of participants. Defined Benefit Plans, Plan Participants [Domain] A categorization of participants (Active participants, Terminated vested participants, Retirees and beneficiaries). Defined Contribution Plan, Asset Classes Mix Option One Fixed Income Represents the percentage of asset classes mix in fixed income under option one of the plan Percentage of asset classes mix in fixed income under option one Defined Contribution Plan, Asset Classes Mix Option Three Equities Percentage of asset classes mix in equities under option three Represents the percentage of asset classes mix in equities under option three of the plan Defined Contribution Plan, Asset Classes Mix Option Three Fixed Income Percentage of asset classes mix in fixed income under option three Represents the percentage of asset classes mix in fixed income under option three of the plan Defined Contribution Plan, Asset Classes Mix Option Two Equities Represents the percentage of asset classes mix in equities under option two of the plan Percentage of asset classes mix in equities under option two Defined Contribution Plan, Asset Classes Mix Option Two Fixed Income Represents the percentage of asset classes mix in fixed income under option two of the plan Percentage of asset classes mix in fixed income under option two Depreciation Annual Average Rates Annual average rates for calculating depreciation on straight-line method (as a percent) Represents the annual average rates for calculating depreciation on straight-line method. Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Assets Gain (loss) on sale of assets Gain (Loss) on sale of assets Description of New Accounting Pronouncements [Text Block] Accounting pronouncements Disclosure of new accounting pronouncements. Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation, Advances to Suppliers For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), the aggregate of amounts of advances to suppliers, reduced to their estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of recoverability and net of any write-downs taken for collection uncertainty on the part of the holder, respectively. Advances to suppliers - energy Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation, Long-term Debt Long term debt For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), carrying value of long-term debt. Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation, Recoverable Taxes Recoverable taxes For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), the aggregate of amounts of recoverable taxes from taxing authorities or customers, reduced to their estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of recoverability and net of any write-downs taken for collection uncertainty on the part of the holder, respectively. Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation, Short-term Debt Short - term debt For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), carrying value of short-term debt. Disposal Group not Discontinued Operation Percentage of Entity Sold Percentage of stake in Paragominas bauxite mine Represents the portion of the entity sold. Percentage of stake in Paragominas bauxite mine sold Disposals (acquisitions) of noncontrolling interests Disposals and (acquisitions) of noncontrolling interests. Disposals and (Acquisitions) of Noncontrolling Interests Dividend Percentage for Preferred Stockholders if Greater than Stated Percentage Dividend percentage for preferred stockholders if greater than 6% Dividend percentage for preferred stockholders if greater than 6%. Dividend to Stockholders First installment of the dividend to stockholders (in shares) First installment of the dividend to stockholders. Dividends and Interest Attributed to Stockholders The cash outflow for dividends and return of capital to the shareholders. Dividends and interest attributed to Company's stockholders Dividends and interest attributed to stockholders' equity Dividends and Interest Attributed to Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Document and Entity Information Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Unrealized derivative losses (gains), net Earnings Per Common Share The amount of net income or loss for the period per each common share outstanding during the reporting period. Earnings per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings per common share Earnings per common share from continuing operations (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Common Share from Continuing Operations Earnings per common share from continuing operations. Minority Interest Percentage of Outstanding Shares Redeemed Percentage of outstanding shares in consolidated subsidiary redeemed from third party investors This element represents the percentage of outstanding shares in the consolidated subsidiary redeemed from noncontrolling interest. Earnings per common share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Common Share from Discontinued Operations Earnings per common share from discontinued operations. Earnings Per Common Share Linked to Convertible Note The amount of net income or loss for the period per each common share outstanding linked to convertible note during the reporting period. Earnings per convertible note linked to common share (in dollars per share) Earnings per convertible notes linked to common share Percentage of ownership interest in preferred shares Percentage of Ownership Interest in Preferred Shares This element represents the percentage of ownership interest in preferred shares. Earnings per convertible notes linked to common share from continuing operations (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Common Share Linked to Convertible Note from Continuing Operations Earnings per common share linked to convertible note from continuing operations. Earnings per convertible notes linked to common share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Common Share Linked to Convertible Note from Discontinued Operations Earnings per common share linked to convertible note from discontinued operations. Earnings Per Preferred and Common Share, Basic The amount of net income or loss for the period per each preferred and common share outstanding during the reporting period. Basic Earnings per preferred and common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Preferred and Common Share, Diluted The amount of net income or loss for the period per each preferred and common share units for all dilutive potential common and preferred shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted Earnings per preferred and common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Preferred Share The amount of net income or loss for the period per each preferred share outstanding during the reporting period. Earnings per preferred share (in dollars per share) Earnings per preferred share Earnings Per Preferred Share from Continuing Operations Earnings per preferred share from continuing operations. Earnings per preferred share from continuing operations (in dollars per share) Earnings per preferred share from discontinued operations. Earnings per preferred share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Preferred Share from Discontinued Operations Earnings Per Preferred Share Linked to Convertible Note The amount of net income or loss for the period per each preferred share outstanding linked to convertible note during the reporting period. Earnings per convertible note linked to preferred share (in dollars per share) Earnings per convertible notes linked to preferred share Earnings per convertible notes linked to preferred share from continuing operations (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Preferred Share Linked to Convertible Note from Continuing Operations Earnings per preferred share linked to convertible note from continuing operations. Earnings per convertible notes linked to preferred share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Preferred Share Linked to Convertible Note from Discontinued Operations Earnings per preferred share linked to convertible note from discontinued operations. Earnings Per Share, Diluted if Antidilutive Shares Included in Calculation The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to shareholders if the impact of antidilutive shares had been included in the calculation. Diluted Earnings per share (in dollars per share) Economic Entity [Axis] Pertinent information related to economic entities associated with entity. Economic Entity [Domain] Represents the name of various economic entities. Effect on Operations Due to Transactions with Related Parties Amount of effect of operations in results Represents the amount by which income of the entity is affected due to transactions with related party. Effects of Derivatives [Abstract] Effects of derivatives Energy - Aluminum options. Energy - Aluminum options Energy Aluminum Options [Member] Equity Investments from Related Parties [Member] Equity investments from related parties Represents the equity investments from related parties. Equity Securities and Funds [Member] Equity Represents the investments in equity securities and investments that pool funds from many investors to invest in a combination of underlying investments, primarily equity investments. Euro Bond. Euro Bond Euro Bond [Member] EuroBond Swap. EuroBond Swap Euro Bond Swap [Member] EURO floating rate vs. USD floating rate swap. EURO floating rate vs. USD floating rate swap Euro Floating Rate Versus Usd Floating Rate Swap [Member] Represents Europe. Europe Europe [Member] Represents the not deductible or not taxable exchange variation. Exchange Variation not Taxable or not Deductible Exchange variation (not taxable) or not deductible Represents a credit agreement with Export Development Canada. Export Development Canada Export Development Canada [Member] Represents a financing agreement with The Export Import Bank of China and the Bank of China Limited. Revolving Line of Credit Facility Export Import Bank of China and Bank of China Limited Financing Agreement [Member] UNITED STATES United States Export-Import Bank of China and Bank of China Limited. Export Import Bank of China and the Bank of China Limited Export Import Bank of China and Bank of China Limited [Member] Extraordinary, Payment of Interest on Capital in, Gross Amount Extraordinary payment of interest on capital in total gross amount Represents the amount approved by the board of directors for extraordinary payment regarding the first installment of interest on capital. Extraordinary, Payment of Interest on Capital Per Outstanding Shares Extraordinary payment of interest on capital per outstanding shares (in dollars per share) Represents the per share amount approved by the board of directors for extraordinary payment regarding the first installment of interest on capital. Fair Value Disclosures of Financial Assets and Liabilities Textual [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures of Financial Assets and Liabilities Fair Value result on loans Changes to accumulated comprehensive income related to fair values of loans, after tax. Fair Value Result on Loans [Member] Estimated fair value measurement Fair Values by Balance Sheet Grouping [Abstract] Federal Government Securities [Member] Securities of the Federal government Represents the investments in securities issued by the Federal Government. Ferroalloys. Ferroalloys Ferroalloys [Member] Ferrovia Centro -Atlantica S. A. Represents Ferrovia Centro - Atlantica S. A., a subsidiary of the entity. Ferrovia Centro -Atlantica S. A. [Member] Ferrovia Norte Sul S.A. Represents Ferrovia Norte Sul S.A., a subsidiary of the entity. Ferrovia Norte Sul S.A. [Member] Fertilizer Inventory Fertilizer Represents fertilizer inventory. Fertilizer Products Revenue from the sale of fertilizer products. Fertilizer products Fertilizers Businesses Represents Fertilizers businesses acquired by the entity. Fertilizers Businesses Acquisition [Member] Represents the operating segment of the entity, Fertilizers. Fertilizers Fertilizers [Member] Final Maturity Dates [Text Block] Final maturity dates Represents the final maturity dates of derivatives. Financial Institutions, Debt Securities [Member] Debt securities - Financial Institutions This element represents the debt securities issued by financial institutions. Five years after closing date Represents a transaction scheduled to occur five years after the closing date. Five Years after Closing Date [Member] 2015 Fixed Rate Notes Eur Currency Denominated, Current Fixed Rate Notes - EUR denominated, current Represents the fixed rate notes denominated in EUR classified as current. Fixed Rate Notes Eur Currency Denominated, Noncurrent Fixed Rate Notes - EUR denominated, noncurrent Represents the fixed rate notes denominated in EUR classified as noncurrent. Fixed Rate Notes Us Currency Denominated, Current Fixed Rate Notes - US dollar denominated, current Represents the fixed rate notes denominated in US dollars classified as current. Fixed Rate Notes Us Currency Denominated, Noncurrent Fixed Rate Notes - US dollar denominated, noncurrent Represents the fixed rate notes denominated in US dollars classified as noncurrent. Floating rate debt. Floating Rate Debt Floating Rate Debt [Member] Represents the information pertaining to derivative contracts which are entered for nickel concentrate costumer sales. For nickel concentrate costumer sales For Nickel Concentrate Costumer Sales [Member] Foreign Currency Transactions Gain (Loss) before Tax Foreign currency transactions gain or loss included in Foreign exchange and indexation gains (losses), net Represents the amount of foreign currency transactions gain or loss before tax. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Current [Member] Allowance for doubtful accounts Represents the foreign debt of the entity. Foreign debt Foreign Debt [Member] Foreign exchange and interest rate risk. Foreign exchange and interest rate risk Foreign Exchange and Interest Rate Risk [Member] Foreign exchange cash flow hedge. Foreign exchange cash flow hedge Foreign Exchange Cash Flow Hedge [Member] Fundacao Petrobras DeSeguridade Social [Member] Fundao PETROBRAS de Seguridade Social PETROS Represents the defined benefit plan maintained through Fundacao PETROBRAS de Seguridade Social. Funding Status [Domain] Information on funding status of defined benefit plans. Funding Status of Defined Benefit Plans [Axis] Represents the funding status of defined benefit plans. Funds linked to future mandatory conversion Funds Linked to Future Mandatory Conversion [Abstract] Funds Linked to Future Mandatory Conversion [Text Block] Funds linked to future mandatory conversion Tabular disclosure of the gross value of mandatory convertible notes classified as equity, by class of stock. Future Payments to be Received from Sale of Business Scheduled future cash payments to be received Represents the value of future payments to be received from disposal of the business. Future Transaction [Axis] Represents the listing of future transactions agreed by the entity. Future Transaction [Domain] The future dates of transactions. Gain on Sale of Assets [Member] Represents gain on sale of assets. Gain on Sale of Assets General Price Index Market IGP-M - General Price Index - Market (in rates) General market price indexation indices applied to debt of the entity. Goro Project Goro project under development in New Caledonia. Goro Project [Member] Government Bonds, Debt Securities [Member] Debt securities - Government bonds Represents the investments in government bonds. Guarantee Obligations Maximum Exposure Per Shipment Financial assurance provided by VNL in the form of letter of credit per shipment Guarantee obligations maximum exposure per shipment. Represents Henan Longyu Resources Co Ltd, an equity method investee. Henan Longyu Resources Co Ltd Henan Longyu Resources Co Ltd [Member] Represents Heron Resources Inc, an equity method investee. Heron Resources Inc Heron Resources Inc [Member] Represents the Brazilian debt of the entity. Brazilian debt Home Debt [Member] Hydroelectric Plant under Construction [Member] Hydroelectric plant under construction Represents the information pertaining to hydroelectric plant under construction. These plants are generally for the purpose of generating electricity to be distributed to the consumer. IGP-DI [Member] IGP-DI Details pertaining to IGP-DI. Idle Capacity and Stoppage Operations Expenses Included in Other Operating Expenses Idle capacity and stoppage operations expenses Represents the details pertaining to idle capacity and stoppage operations expenses included in other operating cost and expense that are associated with the entity's normal revenue producing operation. Impairment of goodwill and long-lived assets Impairment of Goodwill and Long-lived Assets Disclosure [Text Block] The entire disclosure for Impairment of goodwill and long-lived assets, where impairment charges depends on several estimates including market conditions, recent actual results and management's forecasts. Impairment of goodwill and long-lived assets Income available to convertible notes Income Available to Convertible, Notes Represents the income available to convertible notes. Income before Income Taxes Equity Results and Noncontrolling Interests after Exchange Variation Income before income taxes, equity results and noncontrolling interests after exchange variation Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income (loss) from equity method investments, income taxes, extraordinary items, cumulative effects of changes in accounting principles, and noncontrolling interest but after not taxable and not deductible exchange variation. Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share if Antidilutive Shares Included in Calculation The amount of net income (loss) derived from continuing operations during the period available to each share of stock outstanding during the reporting period assuming the issuance of all dilutive and antidilutive shares during the period. Income (loss) from continuing operations, per diluted Share (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Per Diluted Share if Antidilutive Shares Included in Calculation The amount of net income (loss) derived from discontinued operations during the period available to each share of stock outstanding during the reporting period assuming the issuance of all dilutive and antidilutive shares during the period. Income (loss) from discontinuous operations, per diluted share (in dollars per share) Represents the tax rate the entity is required to withhold on interest distribution payments to stockholders. Income Tax Benefit Percentage, Resulting from Interest Distribution Withholding tax rate on interest distribution to stockholders (as a percent) Number of years for which operations are subject to an examination by income tax authorities Income Tax Examination, Years under Examination, Number Represents the number of years under examination. Income Tax Holiday for Number of Years Income tax incentives period, including income tax holiday (in years) Represents the number of years for which income tax holidays has been granted. Income Tax Holiday Partial for Number of Years Partial income tax holiday following 15-year tax incentives (in years) Represents the number of years for which partial income tax holidays has been granted. Income Tax Incentives for Number of Years Income tax incentives (in years) Represents the number of years for which income tax incentives has been granted. Income Tax Reconciliation, Other Non-taxable Income Non-deductible Expenses Other non-taxable, income/non deductible expenses The portion of the difference between total income tax expense (benefit) as reported in the income statement and the expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to other non-taxable, income/non deductible expenses. Income Tax Reconciliation, Reversal or Constitution of Provisions for Loss of Tax, Loss Carryfoward Reversal/Constitution of provisions for loss of tax loss carryfoward The sum of the differences between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to reversal or constitution of provisions for loss of tax loss carryfoward. Social contribution contingency payment The portion of the difference between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to social contribution contingency payment. Income Tax Reconciliation, Social Contribution Contingency Payment Increase in Threshold Limit of Defined Cost for Exercise of Put Option Increase in threshold limit of defined cost for exercise of put option Increase in threshold limit of defined cost for exercise of put option. Indexation rates applied to debt Indexation Rates Applied to Debt [Abstract] Indexation Rates Applied to Debt [Text Block] Indexation rates applied to debt Text block for indexation indices/ rates applied to the entity's debt. Installations [Member] Installations Represents the information pertaining to long-lived and depreciable installation assets. Remuneration of mandatorily convertible notes Interest on Mandatorily Convertible Debt [Abstract] The amount of cash paid for interest on long-term debt during the period. Interest Paid Long-Term Debt Interest on long-term debt Interest on short-term debt Interest Paid Short-Term Debt The amount of cash paid for interest on short-term debt during the period. International Investments [Member] International investments Represents investments held outside the reporting entity's country of domicile. Inventory Adjustments for Product Manganese Provision for adjustment to market value for product manganese Represents the details pertaining to provision for adjustment to market value for product nickel and manganese. Investment Funds Private Equity [Member] Investment funds - Private Equity This element represents the investfunds with investment in private equity. Investment in Stock [Member] Investments in portfolio of stock Represents the investments in portfolio of the entity's stock. Investments in Affiliated Companies and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Investments in affiliated companies and joint ventures Investments in Debentures [Member] Investments in debentures Represents the investments in debentures. Iron Ore and Pellets Inventory Iron ore and pellets Represents iron ore and pellets inventory. Iron Ore and Pellets [Member] Iron ore and pellets. Iron ore and pellets Iron ore. Iron ore Iron Ore [Member] Represents a credit agreement with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation. JBIC Japan Bank for International Cooperation [Member] Japanese Long-term Financing Credit Agencies [Member] Represents Japanese long term financing credit agencies with which the entity signed the credit agreement. Japanese long term financing credit agencies Judicial Deposits Payments made following Court requirements, in order to be entitled to either initiate or continue a legal action. These amounts are released upon receipt of a final favorable outcome from the legal action. In the case of an unfavorable outcome, the deposits are transferred to the prevailing party. Judicial deposits Judicial deposits Represents the amount deposited with the courts for loss contingencies. Judicial deposits are made by the entity following court requirements in order to be entitled to either initiate or continue a legal action. These amounts are released to the entity upon receipt of a final favorable outcome from the legal action, and in the case of an unfavorable outcome, the deposits are transferred to the prevailing party. Judicial Deposits, Noncurrent Judicial deposits Represents the information pertaining to Kaolin metal. Kaolin Kaolin [Member] Polaris Shipping Co. Ltd. Represents information pertaining to Polaris Shipping co. Ltd. Polaris Shipping Co Ltd [Member] Represents Korea Nickel Corp, an equity method investee. Korea Nickel Corp Korea Nickel Corp [Member] Represents the Korean Trade Insurance Corporation with the support of whom the entity has entered into a credit agreement with commercial banks. Korean Trade Insurance Corporation Korean Trade Insurance Corporation [Member] LOG-IN Logistica Intermodal SA LOGIN Logistica Intermodal SA [Member] Represents LOG-IN Logistica Intermodal SA, an equity method investee. Labor and Social Security Claims [Member] Labor and social security claims. Labor and social security claims Lease Term Lease period (in years) Represents the lease period. The total amount of the contingent obligation under letters of credit and guarantees outstanding as of the reporting date. Letters of Credit and Guarantees Outstanding Amount Letters of credit and guarantees outstanding Letters of Credit to be Issued Per Shipment of Nickel Concentrate Letters of credit to be issued per shipment of nickel concentrate Represents the letters of credit to be issued as per agreement per shipment of nickel concentrate. Line of Credit, Disbursement Period Represents the disbursement period for credit facility. Construction schedule, period for disbursing funds (in years) Line of Credit Facility, Percentage of Cost of Acquired Vessels Percentage of amount required for acquisition of vessels Represents the details pertaining to percentage of amount required for acquisition of vessels. Line of Credit, Increase in Borrowing Capacity Increase in line of credit Represents the increase in the maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility after entering a new agreement. Line of Credit, Increased Maximum borrowing Capacity Increased borrowing capacity under the facility Represents the increased maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility after entering a new agreement. Line of Credit, Repayment Term Line of credit repayment term (in years) Represents the repayment period for credit facility. Loan Proceeds Financing Activities The cash inflow or outflow associated with long-term loans for related parties where one party can exercise control or significant influence over another party, including affiliates and jointly-controlled companies, owners or officers and their immediate families, pension trusts, and so forth. Proceeds Loans and Advances Due from Related Parties Noncurrent Loans and advances to related parties Loans and Advances Receivable [Abstract] Loans and advances receivable Loans and Advances Receivable, Fair Value Disclosure Loans and advances This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. This item represents loan and advances receivable as presented on the statement of financial position which may include mortgage loans held for investment, finance receivables held for investment, policy loans on insurance contracts, or any other loans or advances which are due the Company as of the balance sheet date. Loans and Advances to Related Parties The aggregate amount of receivables to be collected and advanced from related parties where one party can exercise control or significant influence over another party; including affiliates, owners or officers and their immediate families, pension trusts, and so forth, at the financial statement date. Which are usually due within one year (or one business cycle). Loans and advances to related parties Loans and Financing Denominated in Other Currencies, Current Others, current Represents the loans and financing denominated other than in US dollars classified as current. Loans and Financing Denominated in Other Currencies, Noncurrent Others, noncurrent Represents the loans and financing denominated other than in US dollars classified as noncurrent. Loans and Financing Denominated in Us Currency, Current US dollars, current Represents loans and financing denominated in US dollars classified as current. Loans and Financing Denominated in Us Currency, Noncurrent US dollars, noncurrent Represents loans and financing denominated in US dollars classified as noncurrent. Loans Due to Related Parties Noncurrent Loans from related parties Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of loan obligations due to all related parties. Loans Loans Financing Activities [Abstract] Loans to Participants [Member] Loans to Participants Represents the loans to participants. Logistic [Member] Represents the operating segment of the entity, Logistic. Logistic Represents the long-term asset. Long-term Assets Long-term Asset [Member] Long-term Assets and Liabilities [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for long-term assets and liabilities including the policy for determining which items are treated as long-term. Non-current assets and liabilities Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all long-term debt which is scheduled to be repaid within one year, including any accrued charges. Long-term Debt Current and Accrued Charges Current portion of long-term debt Long-term debt, current Long-term Debt Issue Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Issue price (as a percent) The percentage of principal amount used in the computation of the issue price at which the entity has sold the notes. Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Fifth Full Fiscal Year Amount of long-term debt maturing within the fifth full fiscal year following the date of the most recent balance sheet presented in the financial statements. 2016 and after Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal Next Two Years Amount of long-term debt maturing within the second full year following the date of the most recent balance sheet presented in the financial statements. 2013 Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal Next Three Years Amount of long-term debt maturing within the third full year following the date of the most recent balance sheet presented in the financial statements. 2014 Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal Next Four Years Amount of long-term debt maturing within the fourth full year following the date of the most recent balance sheet presented in the financial statements. 2015 Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal Next Five Years 2016 Amount of long-term debt maturing within the fifth full year following the date of the most recent balance sheet presented in the financial statements. Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal Next Six Years On Amount of long-term debt maturing in year six and thereafter following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed of determinable prices and dates. 2017 and after Long-term Debt Maturities Repayments of Principal No Due Date Amount of long-term debt having no due date as of the balance sheet date, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed of determinable prices and dates. No due date Long-term debt, noncurrent Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all long-term debt, which is debt initially having maturities due after one year from the balance sheet date, including any accrued charges. Long-term Debt, Noncurrent and Accrued Charges Long-term debt Long-term Debt Weighted Average Interest Rate Net of Effect of Interest Rate Derivative Transactions Reflects the calculation as of the balance sheet date of the average interest rate weighted by the amount of long-term debt outstanding by type or by instrument at that time, net of the effect of interest rate derivative transactions. Debt average cost after effect of derivative transactions (as a percent) Long-term Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Long-term deferred tax assets and liabilities Long-term Liabilities Long-term Liabilities [Member] Represents the short-term liabilities. Loss Contingency Having No Provision Estimate of Possible Loss Loss contingency having no provision, estimate of possible loss Represents the estimated loss for contingencies that are reasonably possible but not probable, and which are therefore, not accrued. Loss of materials Represents the details pertaining to loss of material included in other operating cost and expense that are associated with the entity's normal revenue producing operation. Loss of Material Included in Other Operating Expenses Represents MRS Logistica SA, an equity method investee. MRS Logistica SA MRS Logistica SA [Member] Mandatorily Convertible Notes - Common Shares Mandatorily convertible notes - common shares Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of a written promise to pay a note, initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer, which is mandatory to be exchanged for a specified amount of one or more common stock. Mandatorily convertible notes - common shares Mandatorily convertible notes - common shares Mandatorily Convertible Notes Common Shares [Member] Mandatorily convertible notes - preferred shares Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of a written promise to pay a note, initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer, which is mandatory to be exchanged for a specified amount of one or more preferred stock. Mandatorily Convertible Notes - Preferred Shares Mandatorily convertible notes - preferred shares Mandatorily convertible notes - preferred shares Mandatorily Convertible Notes Preferred Shares [Member] Represents manganese and ferroalloys inventory. Manganese and Ferroalloys Inventory Manganese and ferroalloys Manganese. Manganese Manganese [Member] Due from Related Parties Assets Maritime Freight Hiring Protection Program. Maritime Freight Hiring Protection Program Maritime Freight Hiring Protection Program [Member] Maximum Distributable Interest Attributable to Stockholders Equity, Expressed as Percentage of Net Income Maximum distributable interest attributable to stockholders equity expressed as percentage of net income Represents the maximum interest attributable to stockholders equity expressed as a percentage of net income that can be distributed by the entity. Under Brazilian law, interest attributed to stockholders' equity is considered as part of the annual minimum mandatory dividend. Maximum Distributable Interest Attributable to Stockholders Equity, Expressed as Percentage of Retained Earnings and Revenue Reserves Maximum distributable interest attributable to stockholders equity expressed as percentage of retained earnings plus revenue reserves Represents the maximum interest attributable to stockholders equity expressed as a percentage of retained earnings and revenue reserves that can be distributed by the entity. Under Brazilian law, interest attributed to stockholders' equity is considered as part of the annual minimum mandatory dividend. Maximum Original Maturity Period of Short-term Investment Classified as Cash Equivalents Represents the maximum maturity period of short-term investments to be classified as cash equivalents. Maturity period for classifying short-term investments as cash equivalents, maximum (in months) Maximum Quantity Permitted to Ship under Agreement Maximum quantity permitted to ship under agreement. Maximum quantity of nickel concentrate permitted to be shipped (in metric tonnes) Method of Transportation [Domain] Represents the method of transportation. Metorex Limited Represents Metorex Limited approved for acquisition. Metorex Limited [Member] Represents the Middle East, Africa and Oceania. Middle East/Africa/Oceania Middle East Africa Oceania [Member] Represents Minas da Serra Geral SA - MSG, an equity method investee. Minas da Serra Geral SA - MSG Minas Da Serra Geral SA MSG [Member] Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent Loans from related parties Mineracao Corumbaense Reunida S.A. Represents Mineracao Corumba Reunidas S.A., a subsidiary of the entity. Mineracao Corumbaense Reunida S.A. [Member] Mieracao Paragominas S.A. Represents Mineracao Paragominas S.A. Mineracao Paragominas SA [Member] Paragominus bauxite mine Represents Mineracao Rio do Norte SA - MRN, an equity method investee. Mineracao Rio do Norte SA - MRN Mineracao Rio Do Norte SAMRN [Member] Mineracao Rio Norte SA [Member] Mineracao Rio Norte SA Represents the information pertaining to Mineracao Rio Norte SA, being a related party. Minimum Annual Remuneration Attributed to Stockholders Represents mandatorily minimum dividend due to stockholders but unpaid as of the reporting date. Minimum annual remuneration attributed to stockholders Minimum Dividend Percentage for Preferred Stockholders of Preferred Capital Minimum Dividend percentage for preferred stockholders of the preferred capital Represents the minimum percentage of preferred capital, as stated in the statutory accounting records, which must be paid to preferred stockholders annually. Minimum Original Maturity Period of Short-term Investment Minimum Original Maturity Period of Short-term Investment. Minimum Original maturity period of short-term investment (in months) Represents agreements with Japan Bank for International Cooperation and Nippon Export and Investment Insurance to finance mining projects. Mining project agreements Mining Project Financing Agreements [Member] Mitsui and Co Ltd [Member] Mitsui & CO, LTD Represents the information pertaining to Mitsui & CO, LTD, being a related party. Natural gas Natural Gas [Member] Represents the information pertaining to derivative contracts which are entered for natural gas. The Company and its operations Net, Income for Period Adjusted Basic and Diluted Net income for the period adjusted Net income for the period adjusted Basic And Diluted. Income available to preferred stockholders Net, Income (Loss) Available to Preferred Stockholders Basic Represents the net income (loss) available to preferred stockholders. Net Income (Loss) Available to Shareholders Diluted if Conversion Included in Calculation Income available to stockholders Represents the amount of net income (loss) available to shareholders if the effect of antidilutive shares had been included in the calculation of diluted earnings available to shareholders. Long-term incentive, issuance of shares Restricted Stock [Member] Net Operating Revenues Total revenue from sale of goods and services rendered during the reporting period, in the normal course of business, reduced by taxes on revenues. Net operating revenues Nickel Co-Products and by-products Inventory Nickel (co-products and by-products) Represents nickel co-products and by-products inventory. Nickel (co-products and by-products). Nickel Co Products and By Products [Member] Nickel (co-products and by-products) Nickel Fixed Price Program [Member] Fixed price program. Fixed price program Nickel [Member] Nickel. Nickel Nickel Strategic Program [Member] Strategic program. Strategic program Purchase program Represents a credit agreement with Nippon Export and Investment Insurance. NEXI Nippon Export and Investment Insurance [Member] Nitrogen. Nitrogen Nitrogen [Member] Non-cash transactions Noncash Transactions [Abstract] Non-Convertible Debentures Balance Represents the outstanding non convertible debentures as of the balance sheet date. Non-Convertible Debentures, Current Non-convertible debentures, current Represents the non-convertible debentures classified as current. Non-Convertible Debentures Denominated in Brazilian Reais [Abstract] Non-convertible debentures denominated in Brazilian Reais Non-Convertible Debentures in Brazilian Reais Denominated [Text Block] Non-convertible debentures in Brazilian Reais denominated Text block for disclosure of non-convertible debentures denominated in Brazilian Real. Non-Convertible Debentures, Noncurrent Non-convertible debentures, noncurrent Represents the non-convertible debentures classified as noncurrent. Long-term portion Represents the second series of non convertible debentures. 2nd Series Non-Convertible Debentures Second Series [Member] Represents Tranche B of non convertible debentures. Tranche B - Salobo Non-Convertible Debentures Tranche B [Member] Noncash Transaction, Ownership Interest Received Ownership interest received in transaction (as a percent) Represents the percentage ownership of the acquirer received as partial consideration for the disposal of a business. Norsk Hydro ASA Represents the third party purchaser of the aluminum assets of the entity. Norsk Hydro ASA [Member] Norte Energia SA [Member] Details pertaining to Norte Energia S.A. Norte Energia S.A. Northern Energy S.A. Represents Northern Energy S.A. approved by the board of directors for acquisition. Northern Energy SA [Member] Represents notes payable at an interest rate of 4.625% due in 2020. 4.625% Notes due in 2020 Notes Payable at 4.625 Percent Due 2020 [Member] Represents notes payable at an interest rate of 6.875% due in 2039. 6.875% Notes due in 2039 Notes Payable at 6.875 Percent Due 2039 [Member] Notes Payable At 5.625 Percent Due 2042 [Member] 5.625% Notes due in 2042 Represents notes payable at an interest rate of 5.625% due in 2042. Notional Amount of Interest Rate Derivatives with Original Interest Rates Above xxx Per Year Aggregate notional amount of interest rate derivatives, which relates to the currency amount specified in the interest rate derivative instruments, with original interest rates above xxxx% per year. Interest rate derivatives, aggregate notional amount with original interest rates above xxxx% per year Number of Assets Leased Number of leased assets Represents the number of leased assets. Number of Capesizes Acquired Through Financing Number of capesizes bulkers acquired through financing Number of capesizes acquired through financing. Number of Equal Tranches to be Received Number of equal tranches of $200 million to be received Represents number of equal tranches of $200 million to be received related to the sale of Paragominas. Minority Interest Redemptions of Shares Price Paid Per Share Share redemption price paid (in dollars per share ) Represents the price paid per share for redemption of outstanding shares. Number of Major Groups of Nutrients Number of major groups of nutrients Represents the number of major groups of nutrients. Number of New Bank Guarantees Established Number of new bank guarantees established Represents the number of new bank guarantees given by the entity. Minority Interest Redemptions of Shares Effect on Equity Share redemption effect on equity (in dollars per share ) Represents the effect on equity per share for redemption of outstanding shares. Number of Non-Convertible Debentures Issued Issued (in debentures) Represents the number of non convertible debentures issued. Number of Non-Convertible Debentures, Outstanding Outstanding (in debentures) Represents the number of non convertible debentures outstanding. Number of Ore Carriers Acquired Through Financing Number of ore carriers acquired through financing Number of ore carriers acquired through financing. Number of Ore Carriers Build Through Financing Number of ore carriers build through financing Number of ore carriers build through financing. Number of Preferred Special Shares Number of preferred special shares held with The Brazilian Government Number of preferred special shares held with The Brazilian Government. Number of Shipment Guaranteed Number of shipment guaranteed Number of shipment guaranteed. Number of Shipyards Number of shipyards Represents the number of shipyards. Number of Tranches in the Sale of Business Number of tranches The number of tranches in the sale of business. Number of Vote to Each Holder of Common and Preferred Class Stock for Each Share Number of Votes per common and preferred class A stock share per person