A US media outlet has reported that President Joe Biden's administration is planning to impose new tariffs on Chinese products including electric vehicles, batteries and solar cells.

Bloomberg reported on Thursday that the Biden administration is expected to announce its decision as soon as next week.

It says the new tariffs will be imposed based on Section 301 of the US Trade Act, which allows the government to unilaterally take punitive measures against unfair trade practices.

In April, Biden instructed the Office of the US Trade Representative to consider raising tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum to more than 20 percent, or three times the current levels.

Observers say Biden's recent hardline stance against China is an attempt to show his commitment to protecting domestic industry and employment ahead of the presidential election in autumn.

The moves may draw strong opposition from China.