That's right. the Beer game is one of the first things taught in Operations Management in most b-schools, as an example of Supply Chain Management. [I was fortunate to have been introduced to the subject by John Sterman]

In general, delays (i.e. lead times) and variations in orders will do that Beer game effect to any supply chain, no matter where it's located. Apple products are "made in china" because of various reasons -- comparative advantage, business cluster etc.

I'd highly recommend a good reading of systems dynamics (and business dynamics) for those looking for more info.

For those interested, two recommended books:

* "Clock Speed" by Charles Fine (MIT)

* "Business Dynamics" by John Sterman (also of MIT, and a great professor): http://goo.gl/K4OG (Amazon.com link)