Washington Outlook: CAPITAL WRAPUP

TRADE

The U.S. Trade Representative's Office seems certain to name Japan as an offender nation on Sept. 30 under the so-called Super 301 law, which targets countries for trade retaliation. Despite opposition from his economic advisers, President Clinton backs the bellicose move as a "mega-event" needed to jolt U.S.-Japan trade talks back to life. But the action would be largely symbolic. Sanctions could be delayed at least a year, giving trade negotiators time to cut a deal.EDITED BY OWEN ULLMANN