The present invention relates to a method for efficient conversion of carbohydrates into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) in the presence of tantalum-containing solid acid, which shows good activity and high selectivity for HMF preparation from saccharides. The catalyst is stable in aqueous system which makes it as an ideal catalyst for HMF production. High HMF yield was obtained even in mild condition. The catalysts of the invention are advantageous in that they are environment-friendly, easy separation and recovery, can be re-used in subsequent reactions, do not corrode reaction reactors. These features make the catalyst as an ideal catalyst for HMF preparation and have strong industrial application significance.