This compound is primarily utilized in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, particularly in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) for therapeutic agents. Its structure, featuring both chloromethyl and trifluoromethyl groups, makes it a valuable building block in medicinal chemistry, enabling the creation of molecules with enhanced biological activity and stability. It is often employed in the preparation of benzimidazole derivatives, which are known for their applications in antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer drugs. Additionally, its reactivity allows for further functionalization, making it a versatile reagent in organic synthesis for constructing complex molecular frameworks.