A method for synthesis of lactic acid and its derivatives is provided. First, a mixture is prepared, which includes: at least one carbohydrate-containing raw material, at least one alcohol, at least one composite catalyst containing metal chloride(s) (MCln) and tin-containing compound(s), and at least one solvent, wherein M is selected from a group consisting of Li+, Na+ K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ga3+, In3+, Sb3+, Bi3+, Cr3+, Mn2+, Fe2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Zn2+, and n represents 1, 2 or 3. Then, the mixture is heated to obtain lactic acid and its derivatives. By using the above catalyst and method, it is capable of converting carbohydrate-containing raw material to lactic acid and its derivatives directly in a more efficient and economical way.