China's commerce ministry said on Friday it had initiated two counter-probes into U.S. practices hampering the flow of Chinese products into the United States, in a move suggesting no retaliation from Beijing immediately against recent U.S. probes. The two investigations - to conclude within six months but which could be further extended - are launched in response to two U.S. Section 301 investigations against China, the ministry said in a statement, describing the moves as "reciprocal". Based on the findings of the investigations, China will take corresponding measures to defend its rights and interests, it said.