Used primarily as a reagent in organic synthesis, ethyl bromofluoroacetate serves as a building block for introducing fluorinated groups into complex molecules. Its high reactivity makes it valuable in the preparation of fluorinated pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, where the presence of fluorine can enhance metabolic stability and bioavailability. It is commonly employed in alkylation and condensation reactions, particularly in the synthesis of alpha-fluoro esters and related intermediates. Due to its lachrymatory and corrosive nature, handling requires strict safety controls, limiting its use to controlled laboratory and industrial settings.