Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the creation of bioactive molecules with high enantioselectivity. Commonly employed in the preparation of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors due to its favorable stereochemistry and aromatic trifluoromethoxy group, which enhances metabolic stability and membrane permeability. Also utilized in agrochemicals for the production of enantiomerically pure active ingredients.