An intramolecular, alkyne Prins type cyclization of vinylogous carbonates derived from 𝑜-alkynyl phenols is developed for the stereoselective construction of trans-2,3-disubstituted dihydrobenzofuran derivatives. Strong Lewis acids like TMSOTf catalyse this reaction efficiently. The presence of mildly electron donating groups on aryl rings increases the efficiency of the reaction.
