Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, particularly in the production of active ingredients that require gamma-keto ester functionalities. Its structure allows for facile modification through reduction, alkylation, and cyclization reactions, making it valuable in building complex organic molecules. Commonly employed in the development of fragrances and flavoring agents due to its ability to form cyclic compounds with pleasant odors. Also utilized in research settings for the preparation of heterocyclic compounds and as a building block in asymmetric synthesis.