To provide a method for producing an α-acetyl-γ-butyrolactone, which is suitable for industrial production without requiring unstable n-butyllithium and an ultra low temperature condition.

The method for producing an α-acetyl-γ-butyrolactone comprises a process for reacting a compound represented by formula IV (M is an alkali metal) with a compound represented by formula II (R is a hydroxy protecting group) or its reactive derivative.