Alpha-chloro-p-xylene is primarily used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals. It serves as a key building block for the synthesis of various compounds, including active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and fine chemicals. Additionally, it is utilized in the manufacture of dyes, pigments, and other industrial products. Its reactive chlorine atom makes it a valuable reagent in chemical reactions, such as nucleophilic substitutions and cross-coupling reactions, enabling the creation of complex molecular structures.