<p>A process for synthesizing Imatinib is disclosed. The process involves reacting 4-methyl-N-3-(4-pyridin-3-yl-pynmidin-2-yl)-1,3-phenylenediamine (I) with 4-((4-methylpiperazin-l-yl) methyl)benzoate (II) in non-protonic organic solvent in the presence of alkali to produce Imatinib (III), wherein R is C1-10 fatty alkyl, optionally substituted phenyl, or optionally substituted benzyl.</p>
