| Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended |
| Dec. 31, 2019 |
| Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
| Basis of Presentation | Basis of Preparation These annual consolidated financial statements have been prepared by management in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and were approved by the Board of Directors on February 26, 2020. Basis of Presentation Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Teck and all of its subsidiaries. Our significant operating subsidiaries include Teck Metals Ltd. (TML), Teck Alaska Incorporated (TAK), Teck Highland Valley Copper Partnership (Highland Valley Copper), Teck Coal Partnership (Teck Coal), Teck Washington Incorporated (TWI), Compañía Minera Teck Quebrada Blanca S.A. (QBSA or Quebrada Blanca) and Compañía Minera Teck Carmen de Andacollo (Carmen de Andacollo). All subsidiaries are entities that we control, either directly or indirectly. Control is defined as the exposure, or rights, to variable returns from involvement with an investee and the ability to affect those returns through power over the investee. Power over an investee exists when our existing rights give us the ability to direct the activities that significantly affect the investee’s returns. This control is generally evidenced through owning more than 50% of the voting rights or currently exercisable potential voting rights of a company’s share capital. All of our intra-group balances and transactions, including unrealized profits and losses arising from intra-group transactions, have been eliminated in full. For subsidiaries that we control but do not own 100% of, the net assets and net profit attributable to outside shareholders are presented as amounts attributable to non-controlling interests in the consolidated balance sheet and consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. Certain of our business activities are conducted through joint arrangements. Our interests in joint operations include Galore Creek Partnership (Galore Creek, 50% share) and Fort Hills Energy L.P. (Fort Hills, 21.3% share), which operate in Canada, and Compañia Minera Antamina S.A. (Antamina, 22.5% share), which operates in Peru. We account for our interests in these joint operations by recording our share of the respective assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses and cash flows. We also have an interest in a joint venture, NuevaUnión SPA (NuevaUnión, 50% share), in Chile that we account for using the equity method (Note 15). During the year ended December 31, 2018, our share of the Fort Hills oil sands mine increased from 20.89% to 21.3% on resolution of a commercial dispute between the Fort Hills partners. We funded an increased share of the project capital in the amount of $58 million , as consideration for the additional interest in the project. All dollar amounts are presented in Canadian dollars unless otherwise specified. |
| New IFRS Pronouncements | In 2019, we adopted IFRS 16, Leases (IFRS 16) and IFRIC 23, Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments (IFRIC 23), which both became effective January 1, 2019. Note 33 discloses the effects of the adoption of these new IFRS pronouncements for all periods presented, including the nature and effect of changes in accounting policies. Certain information has been reclassified to conform with the financial statement presentation adopted for the current year. |
| Interests in Joint Arrangements | Interests in Joint Arrangements A joint arrangement can take the form of a joint venture or joint operation. All joint arrangements involve a contractual arrangement that establishes joint control, which exists only when decisions about the activities that significantly affect the returns of the investee require unanimous consent of the parties sharing control. A joint operation is a joint arrangement in which we have rights to the assets and obligations for the liabilities relating to the arrangement. A joint venture is a joint arrangement in which we have rights to only the net assets of the arrangement. Joint ventures are accounted for in accordance with the policy “Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures”. Joint operations are accounted for by recognizing our share of the assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses and cash flows of the joint operation in our consolidated financial statements. Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures (CAD$ in millions) NuevaUnión Other Total At January 1, 2018 $ 929 $ 14 $ 943 Contributions 48 — 48 Changes in foreign exchange rates 83 — 83 Share of loss (2 ) (1 ) (3 ) At December 31, 2018 $ 1,058 $ 13 $ 1,071 Contributions 67 1 68 Changes in foreign exchange rates (52 ) — (52 ) Share of loss (2 ) (1 ) (3 ) Other — (5 ) (5 ) At December 31, 2019 $ 1,071 $ 8 $ 1,079 |
| Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures | Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures Investments over which we exercise significant influence but do not control or jointly control are associates. Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method, except when classified as held for sale. Investments in joint ventures as determined in accordance with the policy “Interests in Joint Arrangements” are also accounted for using the equity method. The equity method involves recording the initial investment at cost and subsequently adjusting the carrying value of the investment for our proportionate share of the profit or loss, other comprehensive income or loss and any other changes in the associate’s or joint venture’s net assets, such as further investments or dividends. Our proportionate share of the associate’s or joint venture’s profit or loss and other comprehensive income or loss is based on its most recent financial statements. Adjustments are made to align any inconsistencies between our accounting policies and our associate’s or joint venture’s policies before applying the equity method. Adjustments are also made to account for depreciable assets based on their fair values at the acquisition date of the investment and for any impairment losses recognized by the associate or joint venture. If our share of the associate’s or joint venture’s losses were equal to or exceeded our investment in the associate or joint venture, recognition of further losses would be discontinued. After our interest is reduced to zero, additional losses would be provided for and a liability recognized only to the extent that we have incurred legal or constructive obligations to provide additional funding or make payments on behalf of the associate or joint venture. If the associate or joint venture subsequently reports profits, we resume recognizing our share of those profits only when we have a positive interest in the entity. At each balance sheet date, we consider whether there is objective evidence of impairment in associates and joint ventures. If there is such evidence, we determine the amount of impairment to record, if any, in relation to the associate or joint venture. |
| Foreign Currency Translation | Foreign Currency Translation The functional currency of each of our subsidiaries and our joint operations, joint ventures and associates is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates. Transactions in foreign currencies are translated to the functional currency of the entity at the exchange rate in existence at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are retranslated at the period end date exchange rates. The functional currency of Teck, the parent entity, is the Canadian dollar, which is also the presentation currency of our consolidated financial statements. Foreign operations are translated from their functional currencies, generally the U.S. dollar, into Canadian dollars on consolidation. Items in the statements of income and other comprehensive income are translated using weighted average exchange rates that reasonably approximate the exchange rate at the transaction date. Items on the balance sheet are translated at the closing spot exchange rate. Exchange differences on the translation of the net assets of entities with functional currencies other than the Canadian dollar, and any offsetting exchange differences on net debt used to hedge those assets, are recognized in a separate component of equity through other comprehensive income (loss). Exchange differences that arise relating to long-term intra-group balances that form part of the net investment in a foreign operation are also recognized in this separate component of equity through other comprehensive income (loss). On disposition or partial disposition of a foreign operation, the cumulative amount of related exchange differences recorded in a separate component of equity is recognized in the statement of income. |
| Revenue | Revenue Our revenue consists of sales of steelmaking coal, copper, zinc and lead concentrates, refined zinc, lead and silver, and blended bitumen. We also sell other by-products, including molybdenum concentrates, various refined specialty metals, chemicals and fertilizers. Our performance obligations relate primarily to the delivery of these products to our customers, with each separate shipment representing a separate performance obligation. Revenue, including revenue from the sale of by-products, is recognized at the point in time when the customer obtains control of the product. Control is achieved when a product is delivered to the customer, we have a present right to payment for the product, significant risks and rewards of ownership have transferred to the customer according to contract terms and there is no unfulfilled obligation that could affect the customer’s acceptance of the product. Steelmaking coal For steelmaking coal, control of the product generally transfers to the customer when an individual shipment parcel is loaded onto a carrier accepted or directly contracted by the customer. For a majority of steelmaking coal sales we are not responsible for the provision of shipping or product insurance after the transfer of control. For certain sales we arrange shipping on behalf of our customers and are agent to these shipping transactions. Steelmaking coal is sold under spot or average pricing contracts. For spot price contracts, pricing is final when revenue is recognized. For average pricing contracts, the final pricing is determined based on quoted steelmaking coal price assessments over a specific period. Control of the goods may transfer and revenue may be recognized before, during or subsequent to the period in which final average pricing is determined. For all steelmaking coal sales under average pricing contracts where pricing is not finalized when revenue is recognized, revenue is recorded based on estimated consideration to be received at the date of sale with reference to steelmaking coal price assessments. For average pricing contracts, adjustments are made to settlement receivables in subsequent periods based on published price assessments up to the date of final pricing. This adjustment mechanism is based on the market price of the commodity and accordingly, the changes in value of the settlement receivables are not considered to be revenue from contracts with customers. The changes in fair value of settlement receivables are recorded in other operating income (expense). Steelmaking coal sales are billed based on final quality and quantity measures upon the passage of control to the customer. If pricing is not finalized when control of the product is transferred, a subsequent invoice is issued when pricing is finalized. The payment terms generally require prompt collection from customers; however, payment terms are customer specific and subject to change based on market conditions and other factors. We generally retain title to these products until we receive the first contracted payment, which is typically received shortly after loading, solely to manage the credit risk of the amounts due to us. This retention of title does not preclude the customer from obtaining control of the product. Base metal concentrates For copper, lead and zinc concentrates, control of the product generally transfers to the customer when an individual shipment parcel is loaded onto a carrier accepted by the customer. We sell a majority of our concentrates on commercial terms where we are responsible for providing freight services after the date at which control of the product passes to the customer. We are the principal to this freight performance obligation. A minority of zinc and lead concentrate sales are made on consignment. For consignment transactions, control of the product transfers to the customer and revenue is recognized at the time the product is consumed in the customers’ process. The majority of our metal concentrates are sold under pricing arrangements where final prices are determined by quoted market prices in a period subsequent to the date of sale. For these sales, revenue is recorded based on the estimated consideration to be received at the date of sale with reference to relevant commodity market prices. Adjustments are made to settlement receivables in subsequent periods based on movements in quoted commodity prices up to the date of final pricing. This adjustment mechanism is based on the market price of the commodity and accordingly, the changes in value of the settlement receivables are not considered to be revenue from contracts with customers. The changes in fair value of settlement receivables are recorded in other operating income (expense). Metal concentrate sales are billed based on provisional weights and assays upon the passage of control to the customer. The first provisional invoice is billed to the customer at the time of transfer of control. As final prices, weights and assays are received, additional invoices are issued and collected. In general, consideration is promptly collected from customers; however, the payment terms are customer specific and subject to change based on market conditions and other factors. We generally retain title to these products until we receive the first contracted payment, which is typically received shortly after loading, solely to manage the credit risk of the amounts due to us. This retention of title does not preclude the customer from obtaining control of the product. Refined metals For sales of refined metals, control of the product transfers to the customer when the product is loaded onto a carrier specified by the customer. For these products, loading generally coincides with the transfer of title. Our refined metals are sold under spot or average pricing contracts. For spot sales contracts, pricing is final when revenue is recognized. For refined metal sales contracts where pricing is not finalized when revenue is recognized, revenue is recorded based on the estimated consideration to be received at the date of sale with reference to commodity market prices. Adjustments are made to settlement receivables in subsequent periods based on movements in quoted commodity prices up to the date of final pricing. This adjustment mechanism is based on the market price of the commodity and accordingly, the changes in value of the settlement receivables are not considered to be revenue from contracts with customers. The changes in fair value of settlement receivables are recorded in other operating income (expense). We sell a portion of our refined metals on commercial terms where we are responsible for providing freight services after the date at which control of the product passes to the customer. We are the principal to this freight performance obligation. Refined metal sales are billed based on final specification measures upon the passage of control to the customer. If pricing is not finalized when control of the product is transferred, a subsequent invoice is issued when pricing is finalized. In general, consideration is promptly collected from customers; however, the payment terms are customer specific and subject to change based on market conditions and other factors. Blended bitumen For blended bitumen, control of the product generally transfers to the customer when the product passes the delivery point as specified in the contract, which normally coincides with title and risk transfer to the customer. The majority of our blended bitumen is sold under pricing arrangements where final prices are determined based on commodity price indices that are finalized at or near the date of sale. Payments for blended bitumen sales are usually due and settled within 30 days. Our revenue for blended bitumen is net of royalty payments to governments. |
| Financial Instruments | Financial Instruments We recognize financial assets and liabilities on the balance sheet when we become a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash on account, demand deposits and money market investments with maturities from the date of acquisition of three months or less, which are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and are subject to insignificant changes in value. Cash is classified as a financial asset that is subsequently measured at amortized cost. Cash equivalents are classified as subsequently measured at amortized cost, except for money market investments, which are classified as subsequently measured at fair value through profit or loss. Trade receivables Trade receivables relate to amounts received from sales under our spot pricing contracts for steelmaking coal, refined metals, blended bitumen, chemicals and fertilizers. These receivables are non-interest bearing and are recognized at face amount, except when fair value is materially different, and are subsequently measured at amortized cost. Trade receivables recorded are net of lifetime expected credit losses. Settlement receivables Settlement receivables arise from average pricing steelmaking coal contracts and base metal concentrate sales contracts where amounts receivable vary based on steelmaking coal price assessments or underlying commodity prices. Settlement receivables are classified as fair value through profit or loss and are recorded at fair value at each reporting period based on published price assessments or quoted commodity prices up to the date of final pricing. The changes in fair value are recorded in other operating income (expense). Investments in marketable equity securities Investments in marketable equity securities are classified, at our election, as subsequently measured at fair value through other comprehensive income. For new investments in marketable equity securities, we can elect the same classification as subsequently measured at fair value through other comprehensive income, or we can elect to classify an investment as at fair value through profit or loss. This election can be made on an investment-by-investment basis and is irrevocable. Investment transactions are recognized on the trade date with transaction costs included in the underlying balance. Fair values are determined by reference to quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. When investments in marketable equity securities are disposed of, the cumulative gains and losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) are not recycled to profit and remain within equity. Dividends are recognized in profit and these investments are not assessed for impairment. Investments in debt securities Investments in debt securities are classified as subsequently measured at fair value through other comprehensive income and recorded at fair value. Investment transactions are recognized on the trade date with transaction costs included in the underlying balance. Fair values are determined by reference to quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. Unrealized gains and losses on debt securities are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) until investments are disposed of and the cumulative gains and losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified from equity to profit at that time. Loss allowances and interest income are recognized in profit. Trade payables Trade payables are non-interest bearing if paid when due and are recognized at face amount, except when fair value is materially different. Trade payables are subsequently measured at amortized cost. Debt Debt is initially recorded at fair value, less transaction costs. Debt is subsequently measured at amortized cost, calculated using the effective interest rate method. Derivative instruments Derivative instruments, including embedded derivatives in executory contracts or financial liability contracts, are classified as at fair value through profit or loss and, accordingly, are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on derivatives not designated in a hedging relationship are recorded as part of other operating income (expense) or non-operating income (expense) in profit depending on the nature of the derivative. Fair values for derivative instruments are determined using inputs based on market conditions existing at the balance sheet date or settlement date of the derivative. Derivatives embedded in non-derivative contracts are recognized separately unless they are closely related to the host contract. Expected credit losses For trade receivables, we apply the simplified approach to determining expected credit losses, which requires expected lifetime losses to be recognized upon initial recognition of the receivables. Loss allowances on investments in debt securities are initially assessed based on the expected 12-month credit losses. At each reporting date, we assess whether the credit risk for our debt securities has increased significantly since initial recognition. If the credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition, the loss allowance is adjusted to be based on the lifetime expected credit losses. Hedging Certain derivative investments may qualify for hedge accounting. At inception of hedge relationships, we document the economic relationship between hedging instruments and hedged items and our risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge transactions. For fair value hedges, any gains or losses on both the hedged item and the hedging instrument are recognized in the same line item in profit. For cash flow hedges, any unrealized gains or losses on the hedging instrument relating to the effective portion of the hedge are initially recorded in other comprehensive income (loss). Where a cash flow hedge relates to a transaction where a non-financial asset or liability is recognized, accumulated gains or losses are recognized directly in the carrying amount of the non-financial asset or liability. The gains or losses are reclassified to profit in the same period or periods in which the hedged expected future cash flows affect profit or loss, when the hedged item ceases to exist, or when the hedge is determined to be ineffective. For hedges of net investments in foreign operations, any foreign exchange gains or losses on the hedging instrument relating to the effective portion of the hedge are initially recorded in other comprehensive income (loss). Gains and losses are recognized in profit on the ineffective portion of the hedge, or when there is a disposition or partial disposition of a foreign operation being hedged. |
| Inventories | Inventories Finished products, work in process, raw materials and supplies inventories are valued at the lower of weighted average cost and net realizable value. Raw materials include concentrates for use at smelting and refining operations. Work in process inventory includes inventory in the milling, smelting or refining process and stockpiled ore at mining operations. For our oil sands mining and processing operation, raw materials consist of diluent used in blending, work in process inventory consists of raw bitumen and finished products consist of blended bitumen. For work in process and finished product inventories, cost includes all direct costs incurred in production, including direct labour and materials, freight, depreciation and amortization, and directly attributable overhead costs. Production stripping costs that are not capitalized are included in the cost of inventories as incurred. Depreciation and amortization of capitalized production stripping costs are included in the cost of inventory. When inventories have been written down to net realizable value, we make a new assessment of net realizable value in each subsequent period. If the circumstances that caused the write-down no longer exist, the remaining amount of the write-down on inventory not yet sold is reversed. We use both joint-product and by-product costing for work in process and finished product inventories. Joint-product costing is applied to primary products where the profitability of the operations is dependent upon the production of these products. Joint-product costing allocates total production costs based on the relative values of the products. By-product costing is used for products that are not the primary products produced by the operation. The by-products are allocated only the incremental costs of processes that are specific to the production of that product. Supplies inventory is valued at the lower of weighted average cost and net realizable value. Cost includes acquisition, freight and other directly attributable costs. |
| Property, Plant and Equipment | Property, Plant and Equipment Land, buildings, plant and equipment Land is recorded at cost and buildings, plant and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Cost includes the purchase price and the directly attributable costs to bring the assets to the location and condition necessary for them to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management. Depreciation of mobile equipment, buildings used for production, and plant and processing equipment at our mining operations are calculated on a units-of-production basis. Depreciation of buildings not used for production, and of plant and equipment at our smelting operations is calculated on a straight-line basis over the assets’ estimated useful lives. Where components of an asset have different useful lives, depreciation is calculated on each component separately. Depreciation commences when an asset is ready for its intended use. Estimates of remaining useful lives and residual values are reviewed annually. Changes in estimates are accounted for prospectively. The expected useful lives are as follows: • Buildings and equipment (not used for production) 1 — 47 years • Plant and equipment (smelting operations) 3 — 30 years Mineral properties and mine development costs The cost of acquiring and developing mineral properties or property rights, including pre-production waste rock stripping costs related to mine development and costs incurred during production to increase future output, are capitalized. Waste rock stripping costs incurred in the production phase of a surface mine are recorded as capitalized production stripping costs within property, plant and equipment when it is probable that the stripping activity will improve access to the orebody, when the component of the orebody or pit to which access has been improved can be identified, and when the costs relating to the stripping activity can be measured reliably. When the actual waste-to-ore stripping ratio in a period is greater than the expected life-of-component waste-to-ore stripping ratio for that component, the excess is recorded as capitalized production stripping costs. Once available for use, mineral properties and mine development costs are depreciated on a units-of-production basis over the proven and probable reserves to which they relate. Since the stripping activity within a component of a mine improves access to the reserves of the same component, capitalized production stripping costs incurred during the production phase of a mine are depreciated on a units-of-production basis over the proven and probable reserves expected to be mined from the same component. Underground mine development costs are depreciated using the block depreciation method, where development costs associated with each distinct section of the mine are depreciated over the reserves to which they relate. Exploration and evaluation costs Property acquisition costs are capitalized. Other exploration and evaluation costs are capitalized if they relate to specific properties for which resources, as defined under National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects , exist or are near a specific property with a defined resource, and it is expected that the expenditure can be recovered by future exploitation or sale. All other costs are charged to profit in the year in which they are incurred. Capitalized exploration and evaluation costs are considered to be tangible assets. These assets are not depreciated as they are not currently available for use. When proven and probable reserves are determined and development is approved, capitalized exploration and evaluation costs are reclassified to mineral properties within property, plant and equipment. Costs of oil sands properties The costs of acquiring, exploring, evaluating and developing oil sands properties are capitalized when it is expected that these costs will be recovered through future exploitation or sale of the property. Capitalized development costs of oil sands properties are tangible assets. These assets are not depreciated as they are not currently available for use. When proven and probable reserves are determined and development is approved, capitalized development costs for oil sands properties are reclassified to mineral properties within property, plant and equipment. Construction in progress Assets in the course of construction are capitalized as construction in progress. On completion, the cost of construction is transferred to the appropriate category of property, plant and equipment, and depreciation commences when the asset is available for its intended use. Repairs and maintenance Repairs and maintenance costs, including shutdown maintenance costs, are charged to expense as incurred, except when these repairs significantly extend the life of an asset or result in a significant operating improvement. In these instances, the portion of these repairs relating to the betterment is capitalized as part of plant and equipment. Borrowing costs We capitalize borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that takes a substantial period of time to construct or prepare for its intended use. We begin capitalizing borrowing costs when there are borrowings, expenditures are incurred, and activities are undertaken to prepare the asset for its intended use. The amount of borrowing costs capitalized cannot exceed the actual amount of borrowing costs incurred during the period. All other borrowing costs are expensed as incurred. We discontinue the capitalization of borrowing costs when substantially all of the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use or sale are complete. In addition, we cease capitalization of borrowing costs when there is suspension of activities to prepare an asset for its intended use or sale. Capitalization recommences when the activities are restarted. Capitalized borrowing costs are amortized over the useful life of the related asset. Impairment of non-current assets The carrying amounts of assets included in property, plant and equipment and intangible assets are reviewed for impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts are less than the recoverable amounts. If there are indicators of impairment, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of any impairment. Where the asset does not generate cash flows that are independent from other assets, the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit (CGU) to which the asset belongs is determined. The recoverable amount of an asset or CGU is determined as the higher of its fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. An impairment loss exists if the asset’s or CGU’s carrying amount exceeds the estimated recoverable amount, and is recorded as an expense immediately. Fair value is the price that would be received from selling an asset in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Costs of disposal are incremental costs directly attributable to the disposal of an asset. For mining assets, when a binding sale agreement is not readily available, fair value less costs of disposal is usually estimated using a discounted cash flow approach, unless comparable market transactions on which to estimate fair value are available. Estimated future cash flows are calculated using estimated future commodity prices, reserves and resources, and operating and capital costs. All inputs used are those that an independent market participant would consider appropriate. Value in use is determined as the present value of the future cash flows expected to be derived from continuing use of an asset or CGU in its present form. These estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset or CGU for which estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted. A value in use calculation uses a pre-tax discount rate and a fair value less costs of disposal calculation uses a post-tax discount rate. Indicators of impairment for exploration and evaluation assets are assessed on a project-by-project basis or as part of the mining operation to which they relate. Tangible or intangible assets that have been impaired in prior periods are tested for possible reversal of impairment whenever events or significant changes in circumstances indicate that the impairment may have reversed. Indicators of a potential reversal of an impairment loss mainly mirror the indicators present when the impairment was originally recorded. If the impairment has reversed, the carrying amount of the asset is increased to its recoverable amount, but not beyond the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, had no impairment loss been recognized for the asset in prior periods. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognized in profit immediately. |
| Intangible Assets | Intangible Assets Intangible assets are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Cost includes the purchase price and the directly attributable costs to bring the assets to the location and condition necessary for them to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management. Finite life intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives. Amortization commences when an asset is ready for its intended use. Estimates of remaining useful lives are reviewed annually. Changes in estimates are accounted for prospectively. The expected useful lives of our finite-life intangible assets are between 7 — 40 years. |
| Goodwill | Goodwill We allocate goodwill arising from business combinations to each CGU or group of CGUs that are expected to receive the benefits from the business combination. The carrying amount of the CGU or group of CGUs to which goodwill has been allocated is tested annually for impairment or when there is an indication that the goodwill may be impaired. Any impairment is recognized as an expense immediately. Should there be a recovery in the value of a CGU, any impairment of goodwill previously recorded is not subsequently reversed. |
| Leases | Leases The following leases accounting policies have been applied as of January 1, 2019 on adoption of IFRS 16. For comparative periods prior to 2019, we applied leases policies in accordance with IAS 17, Leases (IAS 17) and IFRIC 4, Determining Whether an Arrangement Contains a Lease (IFRIC 4). Note 33 outlines the effect of adopting IFRS 16 requirements on January 1, 2019, and Note 20 outlines the effect of leases as at and for the year ended December 31, 2019. At inception of a contract, we assess whether a contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. We assess whether the contract involves the use of an identified asset, whether we have the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the asset during the term of the arrangement and if we have the right to direct the use of the asset. At inception or on reassessment of a contract that contains a lease component, we allocate the consideration in the contract to each lease component on the basis of their relative standalone prices. As a lessee, we recognize a right-of-use asset, which is included in property, plant and equipment, and a lease liability at the commencement date of a lease. The right-of-use asset is initially measured at cost, which is comprised of the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, plus any decommissioning and restoration costs, less any lease incentives received. The right-of-use asset is subsequently depreciated from the commencement date to the earlier of the end of the lease term, or the end of the useful life of the asset. In addition, the right-of-use asset may be reduced due to impairment losses, if any, and adjusted for certain remeasurements of the lease liability. A lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date, discounted by the interest rate implicit in the lease, or if that rate cannot be readily determined, our incremental borrowing rate. Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability are comprised of: • fixed payments, including in-substance fixed payments, less any lease incentives receivable; • variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, initially measured using the index or rate as at the commencement date; • amounts expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee; • exercise prices of purchase options if we are reasonably certain to exercise that option; and • payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the lessee exercising an option to terminate the lease. The lease liability is measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. It is remeasured when there is a change in future lease payments arising from a change in an index or rate, or if there is a change in our estimate or assessment of the expected amount payable under a residual value guarantee, purchase, extension or termination option. Variable lease payments not included in the initial measurement of the lease liability are charged directly to profit. We have elected not to recognize right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less and leases of low-value assets. The lease payments associated with these leases are charged directly to profit on a straight-line basis over the lease term. |
| Income Taxes | Income Taxes Taxes, comprising both income taxes and resource taxes, are accounted for as income taxes under IAS 12, Income Taxes and are recognized in the statement of income, except where they relate to items recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) or directly in equity, in which case the related taxes are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) or equity. Current taxes receivable or payable are based on estimated taxable income for the current year at the statutory tax rates enacted or substantively enacted less amounts paid or received on account. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on temporary differences (the difference between the tax and accounting values of assets and liabilities) and are calculated using enacted or substantively enacted tax rates for the periods in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of changes in tax legislation, including changes in tax rates, is recognized in the period of substantive enactment. Deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits of the relevant entity or group of entities in a particular jurisdiction will be available, against which the assets can be utilized. Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates. However, we do not recognize such deferred tax liabilities where the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences can be controlled without affecting our operations or business, and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not recognized if the temporary differences arise from the initial recognition of goodwill or an asset or liability in a transaction, other than in a business combination, which will affect neither accounting profit nor taxable profit. We are subject to assessments by various taxation authorities, who may interpret tax legislation differently than we do. The final amount of taxes to be paid depends on a number of factors, including the outcomes of audits, appeals or negotiated settlements. We account for such differences based on our best estimate of the probable outcome of these matters. |
| Employee Benefits | Employee Benefits Defined benefit pension plans Defined benefit pension plan obligations are based on actuarial determinations. The projected unit credit method, which sees each period of service as giving rise to an additional unit of benefit entitlement and measures each unit separately to build up the final obligation, is used to determine the defined benefit obligations, the related current service costs and, where applicable, the past service costs. Actuarial assumptions used in the determination of defined benefit pension plan assets and liabilities are based upon our best estimates, including discount rates, salary escalation, expected health care costs and retirement dates of employees. Vested and unvested costs arising from past service following the introduction of changes to a defined benefit plan are recognized immediately as an expense when the changes are made. Actuarial gains and losses can arise from differences between expected and actual outcomes or changes in actuarial assumptions. Actuarial gains and losses, changes in the effect of asset ceiling and return on plan assets are collectively referred to as remeasurements of retirement benefit plans and are recognized immediately through other comprehensive income (loss) and directly into retained earnings. Measurement of our net defined benefit asset is limited to the lower of the surplus of assets less liabilities in the defined benefit plan and the asset ceiling less liabilities in the defined benefit plan. The asset ceiling is the present value of the expected economic benefit available to us in the form of refunds from the plan or reductions in future contributions to the plan. We apply one discount rate to the net defined benefit asset or liability for the purposes of determining the interest component of the defined benefit cost. This interest component is recorded as part of finance expense. Depending on the classification of the salary of plan members, current service costs and past service costs are included in either operating expenses or general and administration expenses. Defined contribution pension plans The cost of providing benefits through defined contribution plans is charged to profit as the obligation to contribute is incurred. Non-pension post-retirement plans We provide health care benefits for certain employees when they retire. Non-pension post-retirement plan obligations are based on actuarial determinations. The cost of these benefits is expensed over the period in which the employees render services. We fund these non-pension post-retirement benefits as they become due. Termination benefits We recognize a liability and an expense for termination benefits when we have demonstrably committed to terminate employees. We are demonstrably committed to a termination when, and only when, there is a formal plan for the termination with no realistic possibility of withdrawal. The plan should include, at a minimum, the location, function and approximate number of employees whose services are to be terminated, the termination benefits for each job classification or function, and the time at which the plan will be implemented without significant changes. |
| Share-Based Payments | Share-Based Payments The fair value method of accounting is used for share-based payment transactions. Under this method, the cost of share options and other equity-settled share-based payment arrangements is recorded based on the estimated fair value at the grant date, including an estimate of the forfeiture rate, and charged to other operating income (expense) over the vesting period. For employees eligible for normal retirement prior to vesting, the expense is charged to other operating income (expense) over the period from the grant date to the date they are eligible for retirement. Share-based payment expense relating to cash-settled awards, including deferred, restricted, performance and performance deferred share units, is accrued over the vesting period of the units based on the quoted market value of Class B subordinate voting shares. Performance share units (PSUs) and performance deferred share units (PDSUs) have two additional vesting factors determined by our total shareholder return in comparison to a group of specified companies and by the ratio of the change in our earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) over the vesting period of the share unit to the change in a specified weighted commodity price index. As these awards will be settled in cash, the expense and liability are adjusted each reporting period for changes in the underlying share price as well as changes to the above-noted vesting factors, as applicable. |
| Share Repurchases | Share Repurchases Where we repurchase any of our equity share capital, the excess of the consideration paid over book value is deducted from retained earnings. |
| Provisions | Provisions Decommissioning and restoration provisions Future obligations to retire an asset and to restore a site, including dismantling, remediation and ongoing treatment and monitoring of the site related to normal operations, are initially recognized and recorded as a provision based on estimated future cash flows discounted at a credit-adjusted risk-free rate. This decommissioning and restoration provision is adjusted at each reporting period for changes to factors including the expected amount of cash flows required to discharge the liability, the timing of such cash flows and the discount rate. The provisions are also accreted to full value over time through periodic charges to profit. This unwinding of the discount is charged to finance expense in the statement of income. The amount of the decommissioning and restoration provision initially recognized is capitalized as part of the related asset’s carrying value. The method of depreciation follows that of the underlying asset. For a closed site or where the asset that generated a decommissioning and restoration provision no longer exists, there is no longer any future benefit related to the costs, and as such, the amounts are expensed through other operating income (expense). For operating sites, a revision in estimates or a new disturbance will result in an adjustment to the provision with an offsetting adjustment to the capitalized asset retirement cost. During the operating life of an asset, events such as infractions of environmental laws or regulations may occur. These events are not related to the normal operation of the asset. The costs associated with these provisions are accrued and charged to other operating income (expense) in the period in which the event giving rise to the liability occurs. Changes in the estimated liability resulting in an adjustment to the provision are also charged to other operating income (expense) in the period in which the estimate changes. Other provisions Provisions are recognized when a present legal or constructive obligation exists as a result of past events, and it is probable that an outflow of resources that can be reliably estimated will be required to settle the obligation. Where the effect is material, the provision is discounted using an appropriate credit-adjusted risk-free rate. |
| Research and Development | Research and Development Research costs are expensed as incurred. Development costs are only capitalized when the product or process is clearly defined; the technical feasibility has been established; the future market for the product or process is clearly defined; and we are committed, and have the resources, to complete the project. |
| Earnings per Share | Earnings per Share Earnings per share is calculated based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year. For diluted earnings per share, dilution is calculated based upon the net number of common shares issued should “in-the-money” options and warrants be exercised and the proceeds be used to repurchase common shares at the average market price in the year. |
| Fair Value Measurements | Fair Value Measurements Certain of our financial assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Certain non-financial assets and liabilities may also be measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. There are three levels of the fair value hierarchy that prioritize the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value, with Level 1 inputs having the highest priority. The levels and the valuation techniques used to value our financial assets and liabilities are described below: Level 1 – Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities. Certain cash equivalents, certain marketable equity securities and certain debt securities are valued using quoted market prices in active markets. Accordingly, these items are included in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Level 2 – Significant Observable Inputs Other than Quoted Prices Quoted prices in markets that are not active, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Derivative instruments and embedded derivatives are included in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy as they are valued using pricing models or discounted cash flow models. These models require a variety of inputs, including, but not limited to, market prices, forward price curves, yield curves and credit spreads. These inputs are obtained from or corroborated with the market. Also included in Level 2 are settlement receivables and settlement payables from provisional pricing on concentrate sales and purchases, certain refined metal sales and steelmaking coal sales because they are valued using quoted market prices derived based on forward curves for the respective commodities and published price assessments for steelmaking coal sales. Level 3 – Significant Unobservable Inputs Unobservable (supported by little or no market activity) prices. We include investments in certain debt securities and certain equity securities in non-public companies in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy because they trade infrequently and have little price transparency. |
