Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, this compound plays a key role in constructing pyridine-based active ingredients. Its functional groups allow for selective substitutions, making it valuable in creating herbicides and plant growth regulators. The chloromethyl group enables coupling reactions, while the nitro group can be reduced to an amine for further derivatization. It is also employed in research for developing novel bioactive molecules with potential insecticidal or fungicidal properties.