Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of agrochemicals and bioactive molecules. Its reactive chloromethyl group allows for easy functionalization, making it valuable in constructing complex organic compounds. Commonly employed in the preparation of herbicides and insecticides due to the stability and lipophilicity imparted by the trifluoromethyl group. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry for building blocks in kinase inhibitors and other targeted therapies.