Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) where nitroaromatic and ester functionalities are required. Its chloromethyl group allows for further alkylation or substitution reactions, making it valuable in constructing complex organic molecules. Commonly employed in research settings for the preparation of nitro-substituted benzoate derivatives with potential biological activity. Also utilized in the production of agrochemicals and specialty chemicals requiring multifunctional aromatic building blocks.