sole authorized distributor

well you would have to contact the manufacturer and ask them.
To legalize it you just need to get a business name (DBA) also a resellers permit by the state etc.

If you buy straight from the manufacturer you need to be an authorized distributor and you'll need to buy in bulk. The more of a product you buy the more you save, and the more you'll make per sale.

Thanks for your help , Splaytech........regards Charlie747

Adding value
You should think about what value you will add when you offer to distribute their product, thru promotions, setting up a reseller/dealer channel, agents etc. How will you market their produc. How will you generate enough revenue to justify being the only show in town for their product i.e. exclusive - could you do as well as they would?

I work with small importers all the time. You have to look at the situation from the manufacturers point of view. Why should they only sell to you? If you are keeping the factory running 24/7 with your orders, then you can expect to at least have a chance.

Next, you have to have tight agreements with the manufacturers. If you are manufacturing in Asia for example, chances are that the manufacturer is going to sell the design to another factory, and sell that to Aus/Europe/US wherever you are not.

Remember to register your Trademark in the manufacturing country, and dont bother with the patent (this will help people steal the idea)