<p>Methyl chloride is prepared by effecting liquid-phase reaction between hydrogen chloride and methanol in the absence of a catalyst. The reaction is effected in divided stages including at least an early stage and a last stage. The early stage of reaction is effected in a stoichiometric excess of hydrogen chloride. The last stage of reaction is effected in a stoichiometric excess of methanol. The invention is industrially advantageous in that methyl chloride can be prepared at a high conversion of hydrogen chloride while suppressing the formation of dimethyl ether by-product.</p>
