Methyl 3-iodothiophene-2-carboxylate is primarily used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the development of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its structure makes it a valuable building block for constructing more complex molecules, especially those containing thiophene rings, which are common in bioactive compounds. The iodine atom in the molecule allows for further functionalization through cross-coupling reactions, such as Suzuki or Sonogashira couplings, enabling the creation of diverse chemical entities. Additionally, it is employed in materials science for the synthesis of organic semiconductors and conductive polymers, where thiophene derivatives play a crucial role in enhancing electronic properties. Its versatility in chemical transformations makes it a key reagent in research and industrial applications.