Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of agrochemicals, particularly herbicides and plant growth regulators. Its structure allows for further functionalization to develop compounds with selective activity against broadleaf weeds. Also employed in the preparation of certain pharmaceuticals where pyrimidine derivatives are needed for biological activity, including antimicrobials, antivirals, and cancer therapeutics. The chloro and methylsulfonyl groups serve as reactive sites for nucleophilic substitution, making it valuable in multi-step organic synthesis.