Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of herbicides, particularly in the production of aryloxyphenoxypropionate class herbicides which are effective against grass weeds in broadleaf crops. It serves as a building block for compounds that inhibit acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase), an enzyme essential for fatty acid biosynthesis in plants. Its structure allows for further functionalization to enhance herbicidal activity and selectivity. Also investigated for use in agrochemical research and development due to its reactivity and ability to form stable ether and amine derivatives.