(S)-Methyl 2-aminobutanoate hydrochloride is primarily used in the synthesis of chiral compounds, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and fine chemicals. Its chiral nature makes it valuable for creating enantiomerically pure substances, which are crucial for developing drugs with specific biological activities and reduced side effects. Additionally, it is utilized in organic synthesis for constructing complex molecules, including amino acid derivatives and peptides, which are essential in medicinal chemistry and biochemical research.