Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of pyridine-containing compounds with biological activity. It serves in the preparation of heterocyclic structures through cyclization or condensation reactions, enabling the formation of fused ring systems common in medicinal chemistry. Its keto-ester functionality allows for selective modifications, making it valuable in creating analogs for drug discovery. Also applied in agrochemical research for building active ingredients in crop protection agents.