Lipase-catalyzed esterification of n-butyl oleate was carried out in n-hexane as a model reaction. The optimal activity of Candida rugosa lipase was shown in a water activity ($a_w$) range of 0.52 to 0.65 at $30^{circ}C$. The water produced from the esterification was removed by a tubular type pervaporation system. The rate of ester formed from the enzymatic esterification was allowed to be the same as the rate of water removal by maintaining an optimal $a_w$ of the reaction system using an on-off dewatering control device. The reaction rate and yield with a$a_w$ control were increased two folds higher than the respective values for the uncontrolled reaction.