BEIJING -- China's Ministry of Commerce on Friday launched anti-dumping investigations over imported pyridine made in Japan and India.

Authorities will examine whether and to what extent such imports hurt the Chinese pyridine industry and make decisions according to law, according to statement posted on the MOC's website.

The probes are expected to end within a year and can be extended for another six months under special circumstances.

Pyridine is an organic compound used as an important raw material and solvent in the production of pesticides, drugs, animal feed, food additives and other chemicals.