Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of thyroid hormone medications like levothyroxine. It serves as a building block due to its halogenated aromatic structure, which facilitates specific substitution reactions in multi-step organic syntheses. Also utilized in the development of agrochemicals and specialty polymers where chlorinated benzoate derivatives enhance stability and reactivity. Its hydroxyl and ester functional groups allow for easy modification in chemical routes requiring selective derivatization.