Fake lawyers, scientists, chefs and punters: meet the ‘white monkeys’ paid to make Chinese businesses look global

Foreigners in China are being hired as ‘white monkeys’—paid actors, models, and pretenders—to perform roles that enhance Chinese companies’ credibility and appeal, often in a legally grey industry that remains largely unregulated.

The ‘white monkey’ phenomenon involves foreigners being employed to perform various roles, from acting in advertisements and TV shows to pretending to be executives or scientists, often to boost the perceived prestige of Chinese businesses. These jobs are advertised informally, frequently on messaging apps like WeChat, and range from modeling to participating in staged corporate events, with some roles involving no pay beyond expenses.

Historically, these roles have included participating in talent shows, acting as scientists at expos, or simply sitting in meetings to portray international legitimacy. Piers, a British expatriate, recounts his experiences doing such jobs in the 2010s, including acting as a judge, a scientist, and even pretending to be a law firm representative, often for modest pay or free expenses. The industry thrives on the concept of ‘face’ (mianzi), which values the appearance of international credibility.

While the industry’s scope is broad, it remains unregulated, with race and appearance often specified in job postings to match the product’s target demographic. The practice raises questions about authenticity, ethics, and the potential for exploitation, especially as it often involves misrepresentation and can obscure the true nature of the roles foreigners are hired to perform.

Why It Matters

This industry highlights how China’s social and economic values place high importance on ‘face’ and international appeal, influencing marketing and corporate strategies. It also raises concerns about transparency, authenticity, and the exploitation of foreigners for performative purposes, which can impact perceptions of foreign involvement and legitimacy in China’s business environment.

Background

The phenomenon of ‘white monkeys’ dates back to the early 2000s, coinciding with China’s rapid economic growth and international engagement. As companies sought to project global credibility, hiring foreigners for performative roles became a common, albeit unofficial, tactic. The industry has grown in scope, with job postings increasingly informal and often racially or ethnically targeted, reflecting China’s complex relationship with foreign identity and image.

“I knew we were sitting outside in a premium spot, but I didn’t pick up on what was going on.”

— Piers, former ‘white monkey’

“It was easy money, just acting in staged roles that didn’t require technical knowledge.”

— Piers, on his work at expos and TV

“Having a ‘foreign look’ can give a product or company an edge, especially when trying to build ‘face’ in the market.”

— Chinese industry insiders

What Remains Unclear

It is not yet clear how widespread the industry remains today, or what legal measures, if any, are being considered to regulate or curb these practices. The full extent of exploitation or abuse within the industry also remains unconfirmed, as much of the activity is conducted informally and in a legal grey area.

What’s Next

Authorities and industry regulators may increase scrutiny or introduce regulations to address unregistered employment practices involving foreigners. Meanwhile, awareness among foreigners about their potential roles and rights is likely to grow, possibly leading to more formalized or transparent arrangements.

Key Questions

What exactly is a ‘white monkey’ in China?

A ‘white monkey’ refers to a foreigner hired to perform in promotional, entertainment, or corporate roles that enhance Chinese companies’ image, often without full transparency or regulation.

Are these jobs legal?

Most of these roles operate in a legal grey area, often informal and unregulated, which raises questions about legality and worker rights.

Why do Chinese companies hire foreigners for these roles?

Chinese companies believe that having a ‘foreign look’ boosts credibility and prestige, aligning with cultural values around ‘face’ and international appeal.

Is this practice ethical?

The ethics are debated; critics argue it involves deception and exploitation, while supporters see it as a marketing tactic aligned with cultural norms.

How can foreigners avoid being exploited in these roles?

Foreigners should seek clear contracts, understand the scope of work, and be aware of their rights before accepting such jobs, especially those that involve misrepresentation.