This invention provides a process for monomeric thioloesterification of 1,3-alkadiene in the presence of a catalyst which is a stabilized complex of palladium, tertiary phosphine ligand and thiol compound. Monomeric thioloesterification of 1,3-butadiene with 1-butanethiol and carbon monoxide in accordance with the present invention process provides a high conversion and selectivity yield of 1-butyl 3-thiolopentenoate product.
