Biomass has been widely accepted as a “zero-emission” energy carrier to take place fossil fuels, while its catalytic conversion is still limited by low efficiency of carbon atoms. Biomass conversion via 5-hydroxymethylfurfural(HMF) as a platform chemical is highly attractive because almost all carbon atoms could be retained in the downstream chemicals under mild reaction conditions. Here we summarize recent fundamental researches and industrial progresses on all involved processes including biomass degradation to hexoses, HMF formation, hydrogenation and oxidation of HMF. Biomass conversion via 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) as a platform chemical is Here we summarize recent fundamental researches and industrial progresses on all involved processes including biomass degradation to hexoses, HMF formation, hydrogenation and oxidation of HMF.