Public agricultural research and extension in China from 1990 to 2013 significantly boosted agricultural productivity. By analyzing different time frames, the study found that investments in research, extension, and farmers' education led to substantial growth. On average, public research had a 50% return rate, while extension had a 29% return rate. The benefits varied across provinces, with returns ranging from 24% to 76% for research and 11% to 52% for extension. Overall, these investments had a positive impact on agricultural productivity in China during the specified period.