Ethyl 6-cyanopicolinate is primarily used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various organic compounds, particularly in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. It serves as a key building block in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and agrochemicals due to its versatile reactivity. The compound is often utilized in the development of herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides, contributing to the protection of crops from pests and diseases. Additionally, it plays a role in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, which are essential in medicinal chemistry for creating drugs with potential therapeutic effects. Its application extends to research and development, where it is used to explore new chemical reactions and pathways for creating innovative compounds.