Abstract: A process for the production of steel with increased ductility in which a sulfur-containing steel melt is deoxidized and, if desired, is supplied with alloying elements, the deoxidized melt being treated with magnesium or with both magnesium and calcium as part of a purification action simultaneously reducing the sulfur content, and the reaction is carried out in a casting ladle having a lining free from siliceous oxides. The melt is covered with a synthetic slag free from siliceous oxides and the magnesium-containing substance is introduced in fine-grain particulate form into the melt in a carrier gas at a level at least 2000 mm below the melt surfade and at a rate which is less than the maximum rate at which the magnesium-containing substance is capable of reacting with the melt.