One-pot transformation of sugars to methyl lactate catalyzed by two-component catalyst.

The synergistic effect of In and Sn species resulted in efficient formation of methyl lactate.

The retro-aldol reaction of fructose to trioses was mainly catalyzed by In species.

The isomerization of trioses to methyl lactate was mainly catalyzed by Sn species.

The catalytic process holds great advantages over the conventional fermentation process.