FIELD: organic synthesis catalysts. SUBSTANCE: invention relates to a new method of preparing catalyst for vapor-phase reaction of ethylene, oxygen, and acetic acid to produce vinyl acetate, wherein above-mentioned catalyst includes palladium and gold precipitated on appropriate porous support. Method of preparing catalyst (variant) based on palladium/gold combination is described ending in separately impregnating and fixing palladium and gold followed by reduction of fixed solids to free metal states on appropriate support. Alternatively, palladium and gold can be precipitated consecutively in any order. EFFECT: increased catalytic activity and selectivity and prolonged lifetime of catalyst. 12 cl, 2 tbl, 11 ex
