Lower labour costs might reduce the price for China, but it would still be hefty. And the effort, coming so long after the Soviet Union and the United States', is hardly pioneering. Although Chinese experts offer some technological and scientific rationale, most experts have trouble seeing how putting men in space would benefit China's economy. But that may not be the point. It is exactly the same for the Chinese.
China is no stranger to such notions.
The bombing in particular is seen as having caused deep concern in the military. Looking further ahead, the successful launch of a manned flight would affirm China's technical prowess. They will join a very elite club. Domestically, it will be a matter for national pride. For manned space flight, two capabilities are key.