AbstractThe following aspects of the manufacture, properties and applications of biaxially oriented poly(vinyl alcohol) (PV‐OH) films are discussed: selection of starting PV‐OH; method of production by successive biaxial orientation: technical aspects of production; characteristics and applications of the film. Biaxially oriented PV‐OH films have good antistatic properties, good thermal resistance, oil and solvent resistance, and excellent gas barrier properties, and are used in food packaging applications.The following aspects of the manufacture, properties and applications of poly(vinyl alcohol) film produced by a blown film technique are discussed: selection of starting PV‐OH; process for the production of hot‐water‐soluble (HWS) film; technical aspects of film production; characteristics and applications of the film. Blown films, which are hot‐water‐soluble, are produced in tubular form, for conversion into disposable laundry bags.