Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, especially in the production of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its reactive chloroethyl group allows for further functionalization, making it valuable in constructing complex molecules. Commonly employed in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) where the benzoic acid moiety is part of the target structure. Also utilized in the preparation of polymers and specialty resins due to its ability to undergo substitution and coupling reactions. Its carboxylic acid group enables salt formation and esterification, useful in modifying solubility and bioavailability in drug design.