Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its functional groups—hydroxyl and nitro—allow for further chemical modifications, such as reduction of the nitro group to an amine, which can then participate in coupling reactions. Commonly employed in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients where benzoate esters are structural motifs. Also utilized in research settings for the synthesis of dyes and UV-absorbing compounds due to its aromatic and polar characteristics.