Would it be more beneficial for the U.S. to 
export goods, i.e.: Beer, into China or set up a new distribution center in 
China?  How would China benefit economically from the U.S. setting up 
a distrubition center in China rather than from the U.S. exporting 
their product into China?

I have unfortunately no time to have a thorough look at your question,
because I'm traveling right now. Beer in China is a very competitive
market with both domestic and foreign players (Budweiser) being very
active. Most foreign players (with the exception of Heineken) would in
general produce beer in China and distribute there directly.
Note that for each product the answer might be very different.

Cheers,

Fons