VANCOUVER – The federal government has announced that Canadians will now be allowed 10-year multiple-entry visas into China.

The Department of Foreign Affairs says the new visas will ease travel and reduce costs for Canadians.

The visas are meant to benefit business people who regularly travel between the two countries, as well as tourists and Canadians visiting family.

Travellers can now submit their requests to Chinese consulates and authorities for the new visas, which are valid for up to 10 years.

A statement from foreign affairs says China is Canada’s second-largest trading partner, with two-way merchandise trade reaching almost $78 billion in 2014.

International Trade Minister Ed Fast says the goal is to make it easier for small and medium-sized Canadian companies to export and grow their businesses.