Biomass-derived carbohydrates represent a promising carbon-based alternative as an energy source and a sustainable chemical feedstock. Recently, substantial efforts have been devoted towards converting biomass to 5-hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF), a versatile and key intermediate in biofuel chemistry and the petrochemical industry. In this communication, a simple and easy to operate chemical process using inexpensive chromium catalyst and low catalyst loading to convert cellulose to HMF at low temperature (< 120 degrees C) in ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (BMIMCl) was demonstrated. Solid acid with moderate acidic property was used to promote cellulose hydrolysis and to slow down the decomposition process of HMF product. This process could be attractive for the conversion of cellulosic biomass to various chemicals and fuels. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.