Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals, particularly in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) where the cyano and carboxylic acid functional groups allow for further chemical modifications. Its methoxy and cyano substituents make it valuable in constructing heterocyclic compounds, often found in anti-inflammatory and central nervous system agents. Also employed in the preparation of dyes and functional materials due to its aromatic structure and reactivity in coupling reactions.