Used primarily as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its structure allows for selective substitution reactions, making it valuable in building complex organic molecules. Commonly employed in the production of herbicides and fungicides due to the presence of halogen groups that enhance bioactivity. Also utilized in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), particularly in drugs targeting central nervous system disorders and inflammation. The reactivity of the benzyl chloride moiety enables easy attachment to other molecular frameworks, facilitating drug design and optimization.