Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. It serves as a versatile alkylating agent due to the reactivity of the chloromethyl group, enabling the introduction of benzoate-protected functionalities in complex molecule construction. Commonly employed in the preparation of esters, ethers, and other derivatives where controlled reactivity and stability are required. Its ability to participate in nucleophilic substitution reactions makes it valuable in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and fine chemicals. Handling requires caution due to its lachrymatory and moisture-sensitive properties.