Furthermore, Turkey is the number one manufacturer of sanitary wares in Europe in terms of total medium and large-scale plant capacity. As well as sales on the large domestic market, Turkey's exports of sanitary wares totaled 55,000 tons and 3.5 million pieces in 2000. Top of the export markets are the European countries followed by Israel, the USA, Canada, Australia and the CIS countries. The emphasis on quality is the primary factor in the success of the Turkish ceramics industry. Quality-conscious companies keep up to date with all new developments and apply these to their production.
Product quality is tested numerous times in accordance with a total quality control system.
The Turkish ceramics industry is also highly competitive in design as result of Turkey's rich cultural heritage. Turkish ceramics manufacturers create original designs which draw on the rich diversity of color schemes and motifs of traditional Turkish ceramics interpreted according to contemporary aesthetic tastes. Leading Institutions Sectoral organization has been another important factor in the progress of the Turkish ceramics industry. Gaining strength from cooperation, they are able to find solutions to their problems, expand areas of domestic consumption, and promote Turkish ceramics abroad, thus increasing their share of world markets. OAIB unites Turkish exporters of cement, glass and ceramics under one roof and is responsible for coordination between these sectors.