Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with potential antiviral and anticancer properties. Its structure allows for functionalization at multiple sites, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for building complex heterocyclic compounds. Also employed in the preparation of agrochemicals, including certain herbicides and pesticides, due to its reactivity and ability to form stable derivatives. Additionally, it serves as a building block in the synthesis of dyes and functional materials where nitro- and cyano-groups contribute to electronic properties.