Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and related analgesic compounds. Its structure allows for easy functionalization, making it valuable in building complex molecules through condensation and cyclization reactions. Also employed in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds used in medicinal chemistry and agrochemical research. Its keto-ester functionality supports versatile reactivity, useful in both academic and industrial synthetic pathways.