Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of agricultural chemicals, particularly herbicides and insecticides. Its structure allows for easy modification in the development of active ingredients targeting specific plant enzymes or pest metabolic pathways. Commonly employed in the production of selective herbicides that inhibit acetolactate synthase (ALS), an enzyme critical for amino acid synthesis in weeds. Also utilized in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and plant growth regulators due to its ability to act as a building block in more complex heterocyclic systems. Its chloro and methoxy groups facilitate coupling reactions and nucleophilic substitutions, making it valuable in fine chemical synthesis.