Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It serves as an alkylating agent due to its reactive chloroacetate group, enabling the introduction of ester functionalities into target molecules. Commonly employed in the synthesis of herbicides and plant growth regulators. Also utilized in the preparation of specialty esters and as a reagent in research laboratories for constructing carbon-oxygen and carbon-carbon bonds. Its volatility and reactivity make it suitable for use in controlled reaction environments where selective acylation is required.