With the realization of the current issues on the environment, general society is demanding a more sustainable approach inclusive of green technology. Production of value-added products from biomass waste is one of the ways to achieve sustainability. The introduction of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) as one of the potential value-added products has been gaining immense attraction due to its various applications. Thus, this paper aims to discuss recent research on the potentials of HMF synthesized through thermochemical conversion and bioprocessing routes. Currently, thermochemical routes such as liquefaction are moving towards pilot-scale while further improvement needs to be done in pursuing pyrolysis for HMF production. On the other hand, bioprocessing route are showing good potential for further application. Therefore, the growth in this area is fully anticipated to see the wide potential of HMF synthesis from biomass wastes. © 2021, ETA-Florence Renewable Energies. All rights reserved.