Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It plays a key role in the production of certain herbicides and plant growth regulators due to its chlorinated aromatic structure, which enhances bioactivity. The compound is also utilized in research settings for developing new organic molecules, especially in medicinal chemistry where chlorinated phenyl derivatives are needed. Its ester functionality allows for easy modification, making it a versatile building block in multi-step syntheses.