Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of agrochemicals, particularly in the production of herbicides and insecticides. Its structure allows for further functionalization to develop active ingredients that target specific plant enzymes or pest nervous systems. Also utilized in the preparation of pharmaceutical compounds, where the cyano and ester groups enable transformations into heterocyclic systems with biological activity. Common in research settings for developing new crop protection agents due to its reactivity and selectivity in organic reactions.