The trends in the development and application of ceramic materials in the period up to the year 2000 are evaluated. Though the structural/mechanical sector will be the fastest growing (especially automotive applications) during this period, the electronics sector will dominate the total market. Alumina, beryllia, borosilicate glass, aluminum nitride, fluoride glasses, crystalline oxides for use as substrates for integrated circuits, optical materials, sensors, etc. are discussed. Projected U. S. markets for advanced ceramics are estimated.