Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has called a federal election for 21 October.

Opinion polls are indicating it will be a tough race for Mr Trudeau, who is seeking a second term in office.

The campaign is expected to focus on issues of affordability, the economy and climate issues.

The prime minister visited the Governor General, the Queen’s representative in Canada, on Wednesday morning to formally launch the campaign.

Mr Trudeau touted his accomplishments on the economy and the environment in an announcement, saying: “Canadians once again get to vote for the country they want to live in”.