Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of herbicides, particularly in the production of aryloxyphenoxypropionate class herbicides which are effective against grass weeds in broadleaf crops. It serves as a key building block for compounds that inhibit acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase), an enzyme essential for fatty acid biosynthesis in plants. Due to its structural properties, it enables fine-tuning of herbicidal activity and selectivity. Also utilized in research for developing new agrochemicals and studying plant growth regulation mechanisms.