Abstract: A process for the production of acetylpyridines of the formula (1): by reacting a pyridinecarboxylic ester of the formula (II): wherein R1 is C1-6-alkyl, with acetic acid in the gas phase in the presence of a catalyst. The active material of the catalyst is titanium dioxide and at least one alkali or alkaline earth metal oxide, and it is supported on an alumina-silica support having an apparent porosity of at least 50 percent. The process has the advantage of producing only small amounts of by-products (e.g., pyidine).