Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of herbicidal compounds, particularly in the production of aryloxyphenoxypropionate class herbicides. These herbicides are effective against grass weeds in broadleaf crops. The compound's chlorinated aromatic structure and ester functionality make it suitable for further chemical modifications, enabling the development of active ingredients that inhibit acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) in target plants. Its role as a building block allows for efficient coupling reactions to form larger molecules with enhanced herbicidal activity and selectivity.