The study of the influence of the reaction conditions of alkaline catalysed methanolysis or hydrolysis of methanolic poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) solution shows that for PVAc with an average degree of polymerization of approximately 1140 the optimal degree of hydrolysis for use as a dispersant in the suspension polymerization of vinyl chloride is approximately 71 mol %. Also, the cloud point of aqueous solutions with 1 wt % poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) is at 23-29-degrees-C. It is necessary to minimize the amount of water present during PVAc methanolysis. PVA samples produced under optimal conditions can be used as dispersants for the suspension polymerization of vinyl chloride.