Agarwood, a compound substance of xylem tissue and its inclusions, is generally formed in the Aquilari of Thymelaeaceae during the tree’s natural growing process. In this paper, the authors reviewed the status of Thymelaeaeeae resources, wood features, identification and markets for agarwood（Aquilaria）.The authors proposed that a standard agarwood sample library, with clear identifying information and database including agarwood chemical fingerprint, be built. Finally, a standardized system of agarwood identification technology should be established in order to protect the resource and promote sustainable agarwood development.