<p>The catalytic conversion of cellulose and its sugars to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) demonstrates enormous potential as a key Link in the sustainable production of high-value platform chemicals. Based on its varied chemical characteristics and potential availability, 5-HMF, an essential multifunctional bio-based furan platform component, May effectively transform into a wide range of high-value-added derivatives, Making it a perfect renewable substitute for fossil fuels. In the past several years, the topic of 5-HMF has continued to rise in popularity, and the advancement of numerous research works has greatly enriched the types of raw Materials used in its preparation and expanded the corresponding preparation methods. This article thoroughly examines the intrinsic mechanism of 5-HMF catalytic conversion and primarily summarizes the research progress on effective 5-HMF conversion catalytic systems in recent years, with a focus on the impacts of catalysts and solvent systems on cellulose and derived sugars. Finally, an in-depth exploration and prospect of the research trends in the preparation of 5-HMF from cellulose and its sugars in the future are conducted, with the hope of providing guidance and inspiration for related research in the future.</p>