The unique nature of maleic anhydride's chemical structure results in a highly reactive and versatile raw material. Its unsaturated double bond and acid anhydride group lend themselves to a variety of chemical reactions. Maleic anhydride's largest use today is in the production of unsaturated polyester resins. These resins are used primarily in fibre-reinforced plastics; materials with a wide and growing range of applications in boating, automobile and construction industries.

Another significant use of maleic anhydride is in the manufacture of alkyd resins, which are in turn used in paints and coatings. Other applications where maleic anhydride is used include the production of agricultural chemicals, malic acid, copolymers, fumaric acid, lubricant additives, surfactants and plasticizers.