Agricultural productivity and rural poverty in China: The impact of land reforms

China's historical struggle with rural poverty prompted the Communist Party to implement sweeping land reforms and trade openness policies aimed at economic revitalization. This study investigates the impact of land reforms on poverty by adding mediating factors such as trade openness, research and development (R&D) &D) spending, and agricultural productivity in China from 1960 to 2022. Our findings suggest that trade and land reforms have significantly reduced rural poverty by stimulating agricultural productivity, with R&D &D emerging as a critical driver. To sustain these gains, policymakers should prioritize increased R&D &D investment to further enhance agricultural productivity. Expanding trade relationships, particularly with neighboring nations, and promoting agricultural exports can further bolster rural income and alleviate poverty. Our study provides valuable insights for policymakers not only in China but also in similar contexts globally.