Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system agents. It serves as a building block in the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients due to its reactive aldehyde and chlorine functional groups, which allow for further chemical modifications. Commonly employed in the development of antidepressant and anxiolytic drugs. Also utilized in the synthesis of agrochemicals and specialty organic compounds where substituted aromatic aldehydes are required. Its methoxy and chloro substituents provide electronic and steric properties favorable for specific reaction pathways in heterocyclic chemistry.