We analyze the impact of intellectual property rights protection on factors contributing to China's economic growth. We use a difference-in-difference estimation procedure and hold constant the effects of Deng Xiaoping's South Trip and China's accession to World Trade Organization. The null hypothesis that the 1992 and 2002 patent laws, including China's adoption of Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights standards did not directly affect China's productivity, inward foreign direct investment, or domestic research and development activity is not rejected.