A convenient method is reported for the synthesis of the biologically important intermediate, 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)-salicylic acid, by a sequence involving diazotization/iodination of 2-bromo-3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline, displacement of the bromide with sodium methoxide, and carboxylation of the anion generated by lithium-iodine exchange with carbon dioxide. Alternatively, the anion could be carbonylated with dimethylformamide and the resulting aldehyde oxidized with Jones reagent. Demethylation of 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)anisic acid with boron tribromide gave the title compound.