Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It serves as a building block for introducing the dichloroacetyl group, which can be further modified in multi-step reactions. Commonly employed in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds and active pharmaceutical ingredients where a protected ester functionality is required. Its stability under various reaction conditions makes it suitable for use in acid- or base-catalyzed transformations, especially in the development of beta-lactam antibiotics and other bioactive molecules.