It is primarily used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. This compound is often employed in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) due to its reactive benzyl chloride group, which facilitates the formation of carbon-nitrogen or carbon-oxygen bonds. It is also utilized in the synthesis of herbicides and pesticides, where its fluorinated aromatic structure enhances the biological activity of the final product. Additionally, it serves as a building block in the creation of specialty chemicals used in various industrial applications, including dyes and polymers.