This paper examines the role of Canada in world forest resource production. A broad overview of global timber supply is presented together with an overview of likely future sources. The discussion covers both regions of supply as well as the nature of the forest resource — old growth, second growth, and plantation forest. Within this broad perspective some long-term trends and tendencies are identified. The growing role of plantation and intensively managed forestry is discussed. Canada's strengths and liabilities as a forest resource supplier are discussed within this context. It is argued that Canada cannot compete successfully with semi-tropical regions in intensive forest management. Rather, Canada appears to have the features necessary to compete in world wood markets using a strategy of extensive forestry that takes advantage of Canada's vast forest land areas.