Suriname
China's global expansion drive is clearly visible in Suriname. From deep within the impenetrable Surinamese rainforest to the Brownsberg nature reserve, Ruben encounters Chinese shopkeepers, Chinese gold miners, and Chinese gold traders everywhere. Ninety percent of all supermarkets in the capital, Paramaribo, are owned by Chinese, and Suriname has an enormous debt due to Chinese loans and investments. The Chinese are also very active in the exploitation of Suriname's rich natural resources, such as gold and timber, with fatal consequences for the indigenous population and nature.

In a series of encounters with both Chinese and Mongolians, Ruben paints a concerning picture of a country that is supposed to be democratic. Unfortunately, China's long arm easily extends across the border. The vast Mongolia, with only 3.5 million inhabitants, is squeezed between the communist giants Russia and China. Large international musical productions aim to show the world that they are different: independent and democratic. However, under pressure from China, there is no room for anti-Chinese sentiments, and refugees from China, fleeing oppression in neighboring Inner Mongolia, are not safe in Mongolia