Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of sulfonylurea herbicides, particularly in the production of highly effective rice field herbicides. Its structure allows for the development of compounds that inhibit acetolactate synthase (ALS), an enzyme critical for plant amino acid synthesis. This makes it valuable in creating selective herbicides that target weeds while minimizing impact on crops. It is also employed in the preparation of other agrochemicals and bioactive molecules due to its reactive chloro-pyrimidine moiety and ethanol functional group, which facilitate further chemical modifications.